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#Custodia Aeternum: The Comprehensive Intelligence Community of the Second Roman Republic

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In the wake of Operation Megalith and the Byzantine War post-crisis reconstruction, the Second Roman Republic undertook an ambitious overhaul of its national intelligence and security framework following the intelligence failure to fully appreciate and prepare for the threat of the Slayer ahead of his invasion of Rhodes. The lessons of history, combined with the resolve to secure the Republic’s sovereignty after the stalemate of the war, led to the creation of a fully modernized, compartmentalized, and highly specialized intelligence apparatus.

This new framework, known collectively as the Custodia Aeternum (Eternal Watch), is composed of distinct agencies with clear mandates, and the flexibility to respond to asymmetric and hybrid threats. Each agency is inspired by Rome's legacy of discipline, cunning, and strategy. Below is the comprehensive structure of the intelligence community of the Second Roman Republic:

##I. Frumentarii (FRTI)

Mandate: Counterintelligence, Domestic Security, Surveillance, Counter-Subversion, and Internal Stability

Headquarters: Thessalonica, with decentralized command hubs in all provincial capitals and secure operational nodes embedded across the Republic

Motto: "Custodes Intra Portas" (Guardians Within the Gates)

The Frumentarii is the oldest intelligence institution of the Republic, tracing its lineage to the grain-collecting agents of antiquity, who became de facto internal intelligence gatherers under Emperor Hadrian. Today, the modern Frumentarii has evolved into a sprawling, technologically advanced agency responsible for internal security, counterintelligence, ideological safeguarding, and domestic stability. This agency operates at the intersection of covert operations, psychological analysis, and technological surveillance to ensure that threats from within are identified and neutralized before they can destabilize the Republic.

Expanded Divisions of the Frumentarii:

Regio Aleph: High-Risk Individual and Group Surveillance

Responsibilities:

Regio Aleph is the nerve center for identifying, monitoring, and neutralizing high-risk individuals and groups who pose a threat to the stability of the Republic. These include extremist cells, organized crime syndicates, foreign intelligence operatives, and political radicals.

The division’s operatives are trained to conduct covert surveillance missions, often spending years embedded within target groups to dismantle them from within.

Capabilities:

Operates Umbra Fidelis, an elite rapid-response task force equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance gear, urban combat training, and psychological manipulation expertise.

Develops Behavioral Predictive Models (BPMs) using quantum-driven AI systems to analyze patterns in individual and group behavior that indicate radicalization or intent to act violently.

Maintains a vast network of informants, from embedded agents to coerced collaborators within organized crime and extremist groups.

Actual Operations:

Operation Silent Vigil

Regio Dalet: Cyber Surveillance and Interception

Responsibilities:

Focused on the interception and analysis of domestic telecommunications, internet traffic, and digital communications. This division operates the Republic’s most advanced digital intelligence systems.

Capabilities:

Operates Vox Dominus, a quantum-based system capable of decrypting certain communications and analyzing massive volumes of data in real time.

Monitors the dark web, private communication channels, and encrypted messaging platforms for activity linked to organized crime, terrorist plots, or subversive groups.

Collaborates with Custodes Arcana to address cyber threats originating domestically but with external connections.

Example Operations:

Disrupting a darknet arms trafficking ring funneling weapons to insurgent groups within the Republic.

Identifying encrypted messages between Community leaders suspected of planning coordinated actions against the Republic.

Regio Gimel: Ideological Security

Responsibilities:

Protects the Republic from foreign ideological infiltration through cultural imports such as media, literature, and digital entertainment. Ensures that subversive ideas do not gain traction within the Republic’s population.

Capabilities:

Operates the Censorium Nova, a bureau that conducts in-depth analyses of foreign media trends to identify and counteract harmful narratives.

Deploys social media influence teams to counteract online propaganda targeting the Republic’s youth and intellectuals.

Example Operations:

Identifying and neutralizing a viral social media campaign that subtly promoted anti-Republic sentiment under the guise of artistic freedom.

Blocking the distribution of a foreign-funded film designed to discredit the Republic’s governance system.

Regio He: Government and Military Counterintelligence

Responsibilities:

Protects the Republic’s most sensitive institutions from internal and external threats.

Conducts integrity checks, loyalty assessments, and audits of government officials, military officers, and contractors with access to classified information.

Capabilities:

Operates Project Obsidian, a digital monitoring system designed to flag unusual communication patterns or financial transactions among personnel with security clearances.

Trains operatives in interrogation, deception detection, and stress analysis to uncover compromised individuals.

Example Operations:

Identifying and arresting a mid-level military officer who had been leaking classified defense plans to the Empire of Japan.

Preventing a major cyber sabotage attempt by a foreign agent embedded within a national infrastructure contractor.

##II. Speculatores (SPQ)

Mandate: Foreign Intelligence, Espionage, Covert Operations, Influence Campaigns, and Counterterrorism Abroad

Headquarters: Pindus Mountain Base, with operational hubs and covert sites worldwide

Motto: "Ubique Silentium, Ubique Victoria" (Everywhere Silence, Everywhere Victory)

The Speculatores operate as the Republic’s cutting edge in foreign intelligence and covert action, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman scouts and spies who operated in enemy territories. This agency is responsible for ensuring that threats to the Republic are neutralized at their source, far beyond its borders, while projecting Roman influence globally. From high-level espionage to black operations, the Speculatores are the guardians of the Republic’s international interests.

Divisions of the Speculatores

SIGNIT Corps: Signals Intelligence

Responsibilities:

Focused on collecting ELINT and COMINT from foreign governments, militaries, corporations, and other entities.

Operates advanced networks of listening stations, satellite interception arrays, and monitoring systems.

Capabilities:

Operates C.A.E.S.A.R., a constellation of satellites that monitor electronic signals globally, alongside the Roman military.

Develops sophisticated tools for breaking enemy encryption and collecting metadata at a global scale.

Example Operations:

Disrupting a hostile nation's military planning by intercepting and forwarding operations to Roman & allied forces.

Tracking high-level financial transactions to expose the funding of terrorist organizations operating in the Mediterranean basin.

HUMINT Bureau: Human Intelligence

Responsibilities:

Deploys operatives to penetrate foreign governments, corporations, and organizations, building long-term relationships with assets in key positions.

Operatives are trained in cultural assimilation, linguistic mastery, and covert operations, ensuring their ability to operate seamlessly within target regions.

Capabilities:

Uses Persona Animi, a psychological assessment framework for asset recruitment, enabling agents to identify individuals susceptible to blackmail, bribery, ideological persuasion, or flattery.

Operates Safe Horizon, a secure network of safe houses and extraction routes for operatives in hostile territories.

Actual Operations:

Infiltrating a nation’s entire military and national security apparatus

Organizing and reviving the Polish Home Army

Group Centurion: Black Operations

Responsibilities:

Conducts highly sensitive covert actions, including sabotage, targeted assassinations, and political destabilization efforts.

Capabilities:

Operatives are equipped with advanced infiltration technology, such as silent drones, AI-assisted facial morphing devices, and untraceable biochemical tools.

Actual Operations:

Conducting a heist in a foreign country to procure chemical weapons

Omega Unit: Psychological Warfare and Influence Campaigns

Responsibilities:

Designs and executes campaigns to manipulate public opinion, destabilize adversary governments, and bolster pro-Roman sentiment abroad.

Creates narratives that undermine the credibility of hostile regimes or organizations.

Capabilities:

Operates Project Imperium, an AI-driven platform that generates targeted propaganda campaigns tailored to specific demographics and cultural sensitivities.

Actual Operations:

Orchestrating a disinformation campaign that sows discontent in a foreign nation.

Generating a viral pro-Roman social media campaign to build grassroots support for Roman policies in a country of interest.

##>!II.I Occasus Solis (OS)!<

!Mandate: Global Destabilization of the Empire of Japan and Coordination of Anti-Japanese Resistance!<

!Headquarters: Classified (Believed to Operate From a Network of Mobile Submersible Bases)!<

!Motto: "Sol Occasurus Est" (The Sun Shall Set)!<

!The Occasus Solis (The Sunset of the Sun), the most secretive of the Speculatores, is dedicated to the systematic dismantling of the Japanese Empire’s influence and control worldwide. Its name symbolizes the end of the Japanese Empire, whose rising sun emblem has long stood as a symbol of its imperial ambitions. Occasus Solis embodies the Republic’s relentless commitment to checking and ultimately breaking the Midnight Sun.!<

!Operating in total secrecy, Occasus Solis aims to become a shadowy force across Japan's occupied territories. Through sabotage, insurgency, subversion, and psychological warfare, it seeks to erode Japanese dominance while rallying oppressed peoples to the cause of freedom.!<

!The Occasus Solis reports directly to the Praefectus Custodiae Aeternae and the Consul. Its operatives work under deep cover, often with no direct contact with one another to minimize the risk of exposure. All communications are encrypted using quantum-level cryptography, and records of its existence are purged from internal systems after each mission.!<

!Symbol of Resistance!<

!The Occasus Solis has adopted a Flag of Japanese Resistance to serve as the universal symbol of anti-Japanese resistance. The flag features a black field, representing the shadows in which the resistance operates and the inevitable eclipse of the Empire. At its center is a red sun, pierced by three parallel black arrows angled slightly downward and to the left, symbolizing the deliberate and unstoppable destruction of the Japanese Empire and its ideology. This flag is in active production to be secretly distributed among resistance cells across the world and become an emblem of defiance against Japanese rule.!<

!The aim is for the Flag to become a whispered rallying cry among the oppressed under Japanese rule, a beacon of hope that the Empire of Japan’s dominion will eventually collapse. For the Republic, the Flag reflects the burning desire in ensuring that the rising sun of imperial ambition will forever be eclipsed by the free people's of the world.!<

!Divisions and Capabilities of the Occasus Solis!<

!Umbra Bellatorum: Sabotage and Insurgency Coordination!<

!Responsibilities:!<

!Executes high-impact sabotage operations against Japanese military infrastructure, industrial centers, and supply chains.!<

!Trains and equips insurgent forces within Japanese colonies to lead uprisings and resistance campaigns.!<

!Capabilities:!<

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!Example Operations:!<

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!Ordo Obscurus: Psychological Warfare Division!<

!Responsibilities:!<

!Undermines Japanese authority by inciting rebellion, fostering discontent, and exposing the Empire’s atrocities.!<

!Orchestrates disinformation campaigns targeting both Japanese leadership and the global perception of Japan’s regime.!<

!Capabilities:!<

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!Example Operations:!<

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!Tenebris Resonantia: Cultural and Ideological Subversion!<

!Responsibilities:!<

!Creates and spreads counter-Japanese cultural narratives to undermine imperial ideology and empower local identities.!<

!Exposes and magnifies fractures within Japanese-controlled societies, eroding the foundations of loyalty and unity.!<

!Capabilities:!<

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!Example Operations:!<

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!Mors Occidens: Global Anti-Japanese Resistance Coordination!<

!Responsibilities:!<

!Builds and maintains covert networks of resistance cells across Japanese-controlled territories.!<

!Acts as a unifying force for disparate resistance movements, providing logistical support, intelligence, and strategic coordination. Distributes the Flag of Japanese Resistance!<

!Capabilities:!<

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!Operations:!<

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##III. Custodes Arcana (CARC)

Mandate: Cybersecurity, Cyberwarfare, Technological Espionage, and Digital Surveillance

Headquarters: Thessalonica, with distributed server farms in underground complexes across the Republic

Motto: "Scientia Imperat" (Knowledge Commands)

The Custodes Arcana is the Republic’s premier agency for cyber intelligence and warfare, safeguarding its digital infrastructure while launching preemptive strikes on adversarial networks. It bridges the gap between technological innovation and strategic espionage, ensuring the Republic remains competitive in the digital sphere.

Divisions of Custodes Arcana

Cyber Defense Command (CDefC)

Responsibilities:

Protects the Republic’s critical infrastructure, including power grids, financial systems, and government databases, from cyberattacks.

Conducts constant penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities before adversaries can exploit them.

Capabilities:

Operates Titanus, a neural-network firewall system capable of detecting and neutralizing threats in milliseconds.

Develops proprietary encryption standards, ensuring all Roman communications remain unbreachable.

Example Operations:

Thwarting a cyberattack on the Republic’s banking system orchestrated by a hostile state’s intelligence service.

Isolating and neutralizing malware targeting the Republic’s defense command systems.

Offensive Cyber Operations (OCO)

Responsibilities:

Launches cyberattacks on adversaries to cripple their infrastructure, disrupt communications, and gain intelligence.

Specializes in covert operations to implant malware and trojans in enemy networks.

Capabilities:

Operates Shadow Web, an initiative to infiltrate and compromise adversary systems at the deepest levels.

Uses Project Erebus, a network of AI-driven bots designed to infiltrate and disrupt foreign communications.

**Actual Operations:

Crippling a hostile nation’s military communications.

Digital Intelligence Network (DIN)

Responsibilities:

Monitors blockchain transactions, cryptocurrency exchanges, and illicit online marketplaces for signs of criminal or subversive activity.

Tracks digital communications to map the networks of hostile entities.

Capabilities:

Operates CryptoTrack, a blockchain analysis tool capable of identifying hidden transactions across multiple cryptocurrencies.

Deploys EchoNet, a surveillance tool that maps digital connections between suspected adversaries in real time.

Example Operations:

Uncovering and dismantling a dark web trafficking operation supplying weapons to insurgents in Roman territories.

Tracking the financial operations of a terrorist group funneling resources through cryptocurrency exchanges.

##IV. Aquilarii (AQU)

Mandate: Military Intelligence, Strategic Support, Tactical Reconnaissance, and Battlefield Operations

Headquarters: Crete Military Intelligence Complex, with operating bases across the Republic’s military districts and naval installations

Motto: "Ad Victoriam" (To Victory)

The Aquilarii serve as the intelligence arm of the Second Roman Republic’s military, providing strategic foresight, real-time battlefield intelligence, and operational support. Drawing from the Republic’s proud martial tradition, the Aquilarii work to ensure the military maintains dominance in conflicts ranging from conventional warfare to hybrid and asymmetric engagements.

Divisions of the Aquilarii

Legio Argus: Geospatial Intelligence and Tactical Surveillance

Responsibilities:

Provides real-time situational awareness for military operations through geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), aerial reconnaissance, and satellite imagery.

Monitors troop movements, supply chains, and resource deployment of potential adversaries.

Capabilities:

Part of the intelligence community that leverages C.A.E.S.A.R., a constellation of surveillance satellites with synthetic-aperture radar and hyperspectral imaging capabilities.

Provides live intelligence in contested zones

Actual Operations:

Tracking the movement and positioning of Edenite assets.

Monitoring troop movements and identifying key assets for strategic strikes during the Byzantine War

Strategic Deception Wing: Misinformation and Battlefield Confusion

Responsibilities:

Designs and executes deception campaigns to mislead enemy forces, disrupt their strategies, and lower their morale.

Creates false narratives to influence enemy decision-making and divert resources from key engagements.

Capabilities:

Maintains Illusio-5, a team of creative strategists and engineers who develop decoys, holographic projections, and false communications.

Executes Project Chimera, an initiative focused on creating fake troop movements through drone swarms and electronic signals.

Actual Operations:

Deceiving enemy forces ahead of landings for Operation Megalith

Distracting enemy air defenses with drone swarms to collect data and hit critical installations

Battlefield Intelligence Command (BIC)

Responsibilities:

Supports Roman military units with actionable intelligence during active operations, ensuring a tactical advantage in real-time.

Coordinates with field commanders to integrate COMINT, SIGINT, and HUMINT into battlefield strategies.

Capabilities:

Supports MSAN operations, the Roman battlefield integration platform that combines intelligence from all sources into a single, accessible interface for commanders.

Actual Operations:

Supporting the Megalith aerial campaign by collecting and distributing data on where to move air assets

##V. Sapientes Consilium (SCO)

Mandate: Intelligence Analysis, Strategic Forecasting, Policy Advisement, and Executive Decision Support

Headquarters: Thessalonica Intelligence Complex

Motto: "Sapientia Potentia Est" (Wisdom is Power)

The Sapientes Consilium acts as the analytical and forecasting hub of the new Roman intelligence community. By synthesizing vast amounts of data from all other agencies, it produces insights that guide the Republic’s leadership in both domestic and foreign policy. This agency embodies the principle that knowledge and foresight are the most potent tools of statecraft.

Divisions of the Sapientes Consilium

Synthesis and Interpretation Directorate

Responsibilities:

Integrates raw intelligence from Frumentarii, Speculatores, Custodes Arcana, and Aquilarii into actionable reports.

Analyzes trends in military, political, economic, and social domains to anticipate developments before they occur.

Capabilities:

Operates Visio, an AI-driven analytics platform capable of identifying subtle correlations across disparate data sets.

Employs multidisciplinary teams of analysts, including historians, economists, sociologists, and military experts, to ensure comprehensive evaluations.

Example Operations:

Predicting a revolt in a rival nation based on unusual political activity, enabling the Republic to position itself advantageously.

Identifying an impending coup in a neighboring country by analyzing communication patterns among its military officers.

Policy Advisory Bureau

Responsibilities:

Advises the Princeps, Consul, Senate, and military leadership on the implications of intelligence findings for national policy.

Develops strategic options and contingency plans based on emerging threats or opportunities.

Capabilities:

Maintains Scenario Simulacra, a simulation suite that allows policymakers to explore the potential outcomes of various decisions in real time.

Uses Diplomatic Resonance Models to forecast the impact of foreign policy decisions on global relations. >!The model for Japan has not been effective for some time, however.!<

Actual Operations:

Drafting a contingency plan for a regional conflict that included bioweapon mitigation strategies.

##VI. Legio Fidelis Umbrae (LFU)

Mandate: Oversight, Accountability, Ethical Compliance, and Internal Investigations

Headquarters: Thessalonica

Motto: "Lux in Tenebris Custodit" (Light Guards the Shadows)

The Legio Fidelis Umbrae serves as the moral and operational watchdog for the Republic’s intelligence community. Operating independently of the other agencies, it ensures that all activities are conducted legally and in alignment with the Republic’s values and objectives.

Divisions of the Legio

Oversight Commission

Responsibilities:

Audits the operations and budgets of all intelligence agencies to prevent corruption or misuse of resources.

Ensures compliance with the Republic’s laws and international agreements.

Capabilities:

Maintains Transparens, a secure system for tracking agency expenditures and resource allocations in real time.

Internal Affairs Division

Responsibilities:

Investigates misconduct, leaks, and breaches within the intelligence community.

Capabilities:

Operates Veritas Nexus, a truth-detection system that cross-references behavioral data with interviews to identify deception.

Example Operations:

Removing compromised officials involved in leaking classified information.

Investigating allegations of abuse during covert operations and recommending reforms.

##Unified Command

The Praefectus Custodiae Aeternae, the supreme director of the Custodia Aeternum, reports directly to the Consul and coordinates all agencies through the Forum Stratagem, a secure command center in Thessalonica (with multiple redundant centers across the Republic).

END

#Anthologies and Apocrypha

The following is a compendium of the various character roleplays and other sociopolitical “think tank” releases that are considered important for worldbuilding the UNSC as a (now-NPC) claim, arranged in chronological order.

Because there are an overwhelming number of character arcs (across multiple storylines, many of which intersect) included as part of this anthology, I have bolded the most important story points (so everything else can really be considered flavor or background, for additional character development and stage-setting).

A Dramatis Personae will also follow sometime during the break between campaigns, but until then, I leave you with these:

• Commonwealth of Nordic Kingdoms Claim - first character appearances of Micael Bydén (former STOICS Supreme Commander) and King Carl XVI Gustaf

• First character appearance of Christian Valdemar

• First character appearance of Estelle, because "girls do love cannons"

• First mention of the Count von Rosen and Baron Juutilainen, as well as the Aerial Knights

• First mention of Archbishop Hans Jönsson, embodiment of the Three Kingdoms Doctrine and the current Spiritual Mentor for the Confederation

• On a Wing and a Prayer: How to Train Your Draugen - first character appearances of Kay 'Draugen' Christensen, Bunjil (aka “Bunny”), Jón 'Landvættir' Sigurðsson, Elias Lindberg (current STOICS Supreme Commander), Maia Mäkelä (head of STOICS-SVALINN), and Freja Anselm (currently one of the Aerial Knights). Astrid Andreassen (another future Aerial Knight) is also first mentioned here.

• Will the Circle Be Unbroken? - A then-Prince Hisahito is escorted by Christian Valdemar to the Nordic Kingdoms, where he meets Archbishop Hans Jönsson and is adopted by King Carl XVI Gustaf in the wake of the death of his grandfather, the Emperor-Emeritus Akihito

• Angels of Mercy: The First Miracle - First character appearance of Birgitta Olofsdotter before her ascension and canonization. Other character appearances include Count von Rosen, Baron Juutilainen, and the first sighting of the Two Witnesses Joseph (“the Jew”) and Dolikhós (“the Greek”)

• First appearance of Estelle with General Timo Kivinen, one of the most enduring character relationships; also Estelle’s first meeting with Hisahito

• First character appearance of Vladimir, Estelle’s Russian collaborator

• Minor character interaction between Estelle and Timo

• When a Knight Won His Spurs - Hisahito’s legend is born; Hisahito’s Baptism and entry into the Aerial Knights

• Another minor character interaction between Estelle and Timo

• Yet another minor character interaction between Estelle and Timo

• Danse Macabre - First character appearance of Gabriel and his grandfather, Albert II, in the wake of the loss of their homeland

• First mention of Princess Isabella of Denmark, soon to be Gabriel’s beau, and Crown Princess Victoria, Estelle’s mother

• First mention of Prince George of Cambridge, Estelle’s future husband

• On and Wing and a Prayer: Ready Player ᚠ - Major crossover RP backlit by a massive joint exercise; character appearances include Draugen, Bunny, Landvættir, Andreassen, Hisahito, Christian Valdemar, Estelle, George, and Birgitta; also marks the end of Hisahito’s character arc in Scandinavia

• Second Son - First character appearance of Prince Oscar, Estelle’s younger brother, as he goes to space

• The Privileged Lovers - Estelle and George’s wedding ceremony, character appearances by Oscar, Hans Jönsson, and Carl XVI Gustaf

• The Great Game - Major crossover RP following Birgitta and Christian as they navigate an international cast of characters; domestic character appearances also include Count von Rosen, Baron Juutilainen, Lindberg, and Mäkelä

• Worldbuilding for what will eventually become the INC

• Formation of the INC

• Estelle and Timo let George in on their fun

• A Snapshot of the State of Europe

• Character dialogue between Bydén and the STOICS “Joint Chiefs of Staff”

• Angels of Mercy: Rebirth - First character appearance of Crown Prince Arthur, whom Birgitta raises from the dead

• Angels of Mercy: Arma Christi - character appearances by Gabriel, Isabella, and Victoria; Gabriel is made Lord Defender and receives the first of the Instruments of the Passion

• Angels of Mercy: When You Believe - Major crossover RP during the liberation of Cyprus; first character appearance of Major General Anshu Gurung (Alice’s personal bodyguard) and additional appearances by Gabriel, Birgitta, Christian, Mäkelä, Lindberg, Count von Rosen, and the Two Witnesses; Also contains Birgitta’s final miracle prior to her canonization

• Gabriel and George bond over a shared love of lances

• Andreassen and Anselm are knighted

• Worldbuilding for the soon-to-be BFF

• Formation of the BFF

• A Snapshot of the State of the Middle East

• Minor appearance by Oscar doing spaceman things

• Worldbuilding for the future Kowloon Commonwealth

• The Court of Miracles - Arthur takes Princess Alice to visit the Cairn before heading back to Japan, with appearances by the yet-sleeping Saint, Christian, Gabriel, and Oscar

• And he said to me, 'Do not fear, Paul, for you will stand before Caesar' - Hans Jönsson informs Estelle that he is being called to witness to Cristiano Ronaldo

• Hans Jönsson is arrested by Ronaldo

• An Interview with the God-King - Hans Jönsson baptizes Ronaldo

• The Parable of the Prodigal Son - first character appearance of Prince Cai Loðbrók, Arthur’s younger brother, as he flexes on Timo

• Formation of the UNSC

• More Worldbuilding for the future Kowloon Commonwealth

• Christian Valdemar and Draugen discuss citizenship for the UNSC’s many sapient artificial intelligences, minor appearance by Bunny

• Angels of Mercy: The King is Dead - The culmination of King Carl XVI Gustaf and now-Emperor Hisahito’s shared character arc; first character appearances by the AZRAELs Geri and Freki; minor appearances by the Two Witnesses and Princess Alice

• Oscar gets angry

• Catharsis - Ronaldo and Hans Jönsson discuss Neymar's heresy

• Promotion of Lindberg to STOICS Supreme Commander and confirmation of Bydén’s retirement

• UNSC NPC Claim for Campaign 1

• Angels of Mercy: Anastasis - The Saint Awakens; first character appearance of First Lieutenant Raphael Ceulemans as he protects Prince Cai from horrors beyond human understanding; minor appearance by Gabriel

• The Peaceweavers - Reunion of Arthur and Alice; Gabriel discusses current events with Geri and Freki

• An Equal and Opposite Reaction - Christian goes ballistic on Hisahito

• First character appearance of Dr. Kristján Ericsson, Estelle’s confidant and primary advisor to the Second Roman Republic

• Character dialogue between Arthur and the new STOICS “Joint Chiefs of Staff”

• Iconoclasm - Gabriel comes into his power

• Truth and Reconciliation - Christian apologizes to Hisahito with a thoughtful gift basket

• Gabriel kicks his soldiers out of a plane

• Worldbuilding for the Baltic Crowned Republics featuring a really big wall

• A soldier-priest investigates rumors of an Angel over Switzerland

• Estelle gets the gang back together; appearances by Timo, Vladimir, and Ericsson

• On a Wing and a Prayer: Brave New Worldview - introducing the next generation of UNSC aviators, including Saoirse ‘Foxy’ McCloud, Louis ‘Wasted’ Tallant, Ramón ‘Capirote’ Olmedo, and Sandra ‘Shengnu’ Yeung; character appearances by Landvættir, Bunny, and Draugen

• Worldbuilding the UNSC Economic Zeitgeist

• First character appearance of Crown Princess Elisabet of Norway as she begins a trend of strong independent women putting a Hapsburg heir in his place

• Sons of God and Daughters of Men - first character appearance of Isabella the Princess of Asturias as she discusses why “Hive Mind bad” with her grandfather Ronaldo

• The Sorrow and the Pity - Elisabet and Æsir Kyōko watch as Gabriel enacts a day of reckoning for the Kingdom of Benelux; minor character appearances also include Isabella of Denmark and the newborn Prince Michel, the entire House of Luxembourg-Nassau, and Grand Duke Henri (at least before he loses his mind)

• Prince Oscar sends people to Mars

• Angels of Mercy: Soldier, Poet, King - Elisabet receives a private commission from the Saint and the Witnesses

• Worldbuilding for the Western Russian Remnant; first mention of the “Cossack King” Dmitri Vodolatsky

• Chariots of Fire: You say “Run” - Elisabet asks her tank to drive her closer because she wants to “hit them with my sword”; character appearances include Raphael, Viktor Gustavson, Aisling Kelly, Ronaldo, and Isabella the Princess of Asturias

• Paradise Regained - The culmination of Gabriel’s character arc; appearances by Hans Jönsson, Isabella of Denmark, Michel, Christian Valdemar, Hisahito, and Albert II

• As Above, So Below: Nigredo - Christian Valdemar is given a vision of the future before reuniting with a long lost love; character appearances by George, Estelle, Hisahito, the Two Witnesses, and the Saint

Those are some of the covops I was doing in Dio's DM.

The information is not complete, but should be sufficient.

[COVERT OPS] The Prison Break

The Based Unity needs to check out it's current capabilities, and some of the upgrades. For that, we would like to start small, but prescise.

The Commonwealth was the premier nation in the BCI technology, far ahead of the competition. But due to ethics and respect for human life, a lot of the potential was deliberately hidden. For example, the "BCI therapy" was one of the few technologies used to change the personality of the affected - an unrestricted access to the brain and soul.

We probably can restore this technology on our own. However, we also need to converse our resources, and get more experience on live targets, so we will begin to test our capabilities on covert infiltration and subversion on the vulnerable targets - Russian prisons.

• Russia has long since abandoned GULAGs and torture chambers in favor of high-tech rehabilitation facilities. However, the worst cases still remain - for which BCI therapy was intended. Two of such facilities was located in Kharp - The Polar Wolf and Polar Owl.

• • Both of these facilities are located in the Far North, in some barely populated locations, and are designed to be far remote. Without established communications, nobody will even know something happened there.
• • The self-unaware AI (SPAI) maintains a part of the prison oversight. Considering our cyberoffensive capabilities, we consider it easy to infiltrate and subvert the program to our cause.
• • Kharp is around 100 km from our near-located Vorkuta Vault - which will make the assault very quick.

The operation is, as following:

• We expect around 1:2 ration of guard-to-prisoner max (IRL numbers but I would actually expect lower IG). That would mean we need to account for 200-400 guards in each prison. However, those aren't elite soldiers - those are simply guards - at best equipped with an equipment to subdue a cybernetically modified android, but nothing on a level of a DAGOTH-equipped Spetsnaz or an Alfr Alpha. We will send small squads appropriate for the case, where the rest will monitor the situation in case of an escalation.

• • We will still conduct recon and collect intel on the guardsmen equipment and defenses.

• Our cyberoperators will replace the feed from mainland to the town and from the town to prisons (and everything in between) with a generated subsitute, in order to prevent any alert to the Karakum. We would like not to alert the whole city, but in the worst case, we will monitor and account for any witnesses. The operation is deep at night in the winter - very few people are outside in the Far North.

• 12 Stealth Quinjets will be carrying a Spetsnaz squad (240 troops), a mobile equivalent of a Unity-upgraded ARL and several dozens of Untiy-upgraded Robotic Recovery Drones. The Spetsnaz is trying to first use non-lethal weapons, but is ready to go lethal - but why waste potential friends?

• Deep at night, when the defenses are at the lowest, we are to infiltrate the complexes and begin our operation on the guards. Subverting internal communications with our EW, we are to first use RRD to paralyze and take the outer guards to the ARL - where they will be chipped and sent back. Using communications to lure and either paralyze, incapacitate or chip the remaining awake guards, we are to secure the sleeping staff, the servers, , the BCI therapy equipment and anything else of interest.

• Later, prisoners are to be chipped during routine BCI therapy checkups.

• We are to recover the BCI brainwashing equipment for integration into ABELARD and the Based Department.

With the ongoing chaos across the Karakum, the operation was a complete success.

Integration via ABELARD/Based Department likewise a success.

[COVERT OPS] Operation “Ghost Buster”

ABELARD has fully integrated themselves with the Yamantau complex. The cutting-edge computing power and research facilities, upgraded with ABELARD-Based-Unity chips, provide easily and by far the strongest cyberintelligence on the planet. However, we hunger for more.

Currently, our Based Unity hinges on chips - requiring access to a brain or CPU capable enough to store an AI. However, we also know of artificial life beyond hardware - the Ghosts hypercode.

The Ghosts are a sort of hyper-efficient, “living” hypercode, adaptable enough to migrate from hardware to hardware. Rouge, unaligned Ghosts exist out there, and we consider them very useful for our Based Unity.

The goal of this operation is to use our research capabilities (including to adapt chipping technology to bring the complete unity, or at least a semblance of it (corrupting the code to the values of Based Unity and ensuring control) to the Ghosts and other AI code.

• The Cipher PMC (a “Volunteer” Ghost arm of the Based Department) was always aligned with the Based Department. We will need to confirm that they are still with us (I would claim meta control over them as a part of BD and say they were on board with the plan or subverted from the Start, but it's up to you), and that they are aligned to our cause.
• We will develop specific cyber offense tools designed for bringing the Ghosts to the Based Unity remotely, as well as to create Unity-aligned Ghost hypercode, designed to pierce less sophisticated hardware (like servers or “dumb” robots), and find a way to convert them without the use of the chip.

The perceived benefits:

• The Ghost hypercode, as an “alien”, sophisticated code represents a different kind of AI to those of Androids or Alfr, and will likely enrich ABELARD/Based Unity structure. (Empowering objective D)

• The Ability to convert less sophisticated hardware and software without chips will be vital for remote operations and making sure of our dominance in cyberspace, and further improve our cyber offensive capabilities

• • Note: I do not consider any of this a part of 30 mil, as those aren’t exactly people. That is more of a way to ensure control over the cyberspace, especially in Russia
• • Likewise, part of it is to be able to convert something like a Clanker robot. Clankers were designed to hold a self-unaware weak AI for routine tasks, or get remotely controlled by a strong AI to be used like their limbs. This will not increase the count of Unity-chipped, but will be a massive aid in operations if we are able to control them remotely.

META NOTES:

Cipher PMC starts under your META CONTROL - officially, they aided the based department in hiding movements to/from Yamantau.

Expect additional word regarding the unaligned Ghosts, in the coming days.

[COVERT OPS] Introducing technology thingies

The Unity and Commonwealth had quite a lot in common, it seems. A lot of plans the Department had, could be introduced into the Based Unity without major changes. However, we still need to adjust them to the Unity.

The Tentacle Thingy

The Robotic Recovery Drone was designed as a way to quickly and safely drag wounded to safety. However, from the very beginning, we had another idea in mind (M - true btw) - kidnapping enemy androids or troops.

That is why it has tentacles designed to paralyze androids and humans.

Primarily, the Based Unity will use ABELARD’s spiders tentacles and RRD to create a unified technology we might be able to introduce later.

• ABELARD’s tentacles will be upgraded with RRD, creating stronger, longer, prehensile tentacles with electroshock included.
• RRD will upgrade their tentacle technology with the ABELARD, using combat experience against Alfr. Especially, we will try to upgrade electroshock technology with a more precise anti-android technology, designed to deliver precise EM hits aimed to disable them
• We will also try to integrate flying parts to ABELARD’s old unit.

The Workshop thingy

The Robotic Recovery Drone was designed to haul androids, willingly or not. But to where? To the Advanced Robotic Logistics. It was a mobile workshop, designed to repair, rewrite and restore our damaged androids. However, another intention was to rewrite captured drones (and potentially, Alfr) and send them to fight for our side.

The Workshop must be integrated to quickly, cleanly and efficiently chip Androids (and Alfr) in field situations, in order to better perform in covert operations.

The Battlenetwork thingy

The Canadian coup has shown how vulnerable modern networks are to internal threats. We will adapt. Assimilate. Unite.

The Russian military has since times untold relied on a battlenetwork - Sovyenok. A huge supercomputers united every piece of the military, getting intel and advising on the orders. It relied on a central supernode, but also had local supporting nodes in AWACS and capital ships.

The Eden had managed to get control of the Polish node. The Remnant has control of the Moscow node. Guiana has a lot of local nodes in the capital ships. But the Based Department has control of the Backup in Yamantau, upgraded shortly before the Collapse. We are not to use the Battle Network. We are to become Battlenetwork.

After successfully integrating the power of the hypercode and the Ghosts (Operation Ghostbuster), we will make sure Sovyenok is fully integrated into ABELARD and has managed to fully take over the system, including all the military equipment integrated into Sovyenok.

Afterwards, we will start monitoring military equipment in Eden and Karakum - without attempting direct interventions (to prevent detection), we want to test the access we might have with Sovyenok. Karakum currently has little cybersecurity on it’s own, and without a dedicated Sovyenok node, they might be very vulnerable.

The perceived benefits:

• Prevent any kind of intrusion into the system permanently
• Provide a massive upgrade to our future battle systems - our military isn’t pretending to be a hive mind, we literally are.
• Integrate our hive mind into the vehicles directly, allow us to expand our power.
• Integrate some of the Sovyenok communications technology into Unity, increasing security and stability of our networks
• Allow us an opportunity to influence and subvert unmanned/weakAI-manned systems of the enemy, especially those in the former Commonwealth.

Just a cheap Knock-off - Slayer

While the most advanced one, we are not the only hive mind on the planet. There are two others of note. And thankfully, we do have some things to integrate.

The goals of this operations is to:

Find potential upgrades from the design of the chips Find a way to convert enemy hive mind to the Based Unity on some level. The scenarios would be: Dominating the enemy chip to being submissive to Unity, so that later conversion would come easy. Allow for wireless corruption of the hiveminds, in order to bring them to us without risking too much.

For Slayer’s new fiefdom, we have several plans to do:

• Some time ago, we were able to massively infiltrate the Iranian communication network, integrating ourselves with military and government communication channels. We will check if that is still the case. We kinda want that.

• When Slayer has invaded Karakum, they were primarily used chipped population. Which we killed, and likely stored bodies and chips somewhere. We will try to check if we have chips/cadavers somewhere in our reach already, recovered from the deceased troops. If not, we will send a covert team near one of the battlefields and try to dig some chips out of mass graves or battlefields- trying not to bring interest to us from Karakum. Based Department, like FSB of old, was responsible for the Border Guard in the Commonwealth, which should help us with the operations at the border.

• Once we have the chips, we will begin research on:

• • Integration of the design into ABELARD - what benefits it can bring us
• • The potential for wireless conversion/corruption of the Slayer chip
• • The potential for less invasive procedures to directly convert the Slayer chip

According to the Based Unity Based Design, the Slayer Population, alongside Karakum, are the two most likely options to access Objective D and reach 30+ million individuals united. Already a proto-hive mind, subverting it will be a worthwhile endeavor.

Just a cheap Knock-off - Siberica

A similar case will be done to Siberica. Thankfully, however, we have put a significant effort to research them before, even with a little success. However, we still should be able to access most of the results, and as Unity, we can repeat the process much better.

It is guaranteed that the process went through the Based Department, which also included access to some deceased chip-infected officials. We will check if they are still in our possession, and will attempt to check again and retrieve the chips. If not, we will try (in diplo) to contact Bandung Pact and offer our services, in order to get a chip for research.

• Once we have the chips, we will begin research on:

• • Integration of the design into ABELARD - what benefits it can bring us
• • The potential for wireless conversion/corruption of the Siberica chip
• • The potential for less invasive procedures to directly convert the Siberica chip

The Tentacle Thingy / RESULTS

• ABLELARDS tentacles have been successfully upgraded, RRD upgrades likewise successful. However, ABELARD's unit has been unsuccessful in receiving flying capability. Testing led to simulated internal failures - deemed currently impossible given technical limitations and adjusting non-Unity tech to this world.

The Workshop thingy / RESULTS

Successful.

The Battlenetwork thingy / RESULTS

• Regarding control: The Based Department has quietly taken full control of the Karakum and ironically, Atlantic Russian Networks. However, for unknown reasons has been unable to integrate, infiltrate, or otherwise monitor Eden networks. There is currently no explanation strictly available from digital analysis. May require in-person checks. Similarly, the UNSC has been much more thorough and keeps an entirely separate network with the Russian Remnant. All the Based Department knows for sure, is that equipment is being taken apart and disconnected from Russian systems.

Just a cheap Knock-off - Slayer / RESULTS

• Based on analysis, the Based Department has access to the Iranian comm networks - however, since the Final Brother War - the vast majority of the network remains unused, inactive, or otherwise quiet. The Based Department does not know why this is.
• While there are old bodies in cold-storage, ABELARD has determined several things,
• 1. Integration of Slayer Chips seems wasteful, any UNITY-designed chip even without PARIS-07 is seemingly far more efficient and of higher quality than any Slayer Chip. The Based Department has received analysis that suggests the quality ratio is roughly 3:1 (3 Slayer Chips = 1 Unity Chip without Paris-07)

Just a cheap Knock-off - Siberica / RESULTS

• It appears, that most of the bodies remain in the Western Russian Remnant and the Based Department has access only to the record-files, not the physical assets.
• What can be determined,
• Integration appears more fruitful - ABELARD is interested particularly in the surgical procedures used for installation.
• ABELARD believes, there may be potential for wireless corruption, or conversion, of the Siberica chips implanted in Brazil - based on Bandung Reports and older Russian reports from the earlier days of crisis.

Just a cheap Knock-off - Siberica

Access to physical assets is granted, and access to records has been greatly expanded.

What are we to do now:

• The research on the broad integration of the chip design.
• The research on both the surgery procedures and the procedures for kidnapping, sedating the officers and other stealth operation knowledge - Brazil was infected even while everyone was looking. We need that for Karakum.

Now, regarding the reserach:

• We are to provide only a part of the knowledge of the detection, while appearing honest. The goal is to learn how the chip is hidden, and use our own technology to hide it better than Siberican ones. In addition, during providing Pact with knowledge, we are to intentionally leave subtle backdoors (either in frequencies, mark locations, scanners used) to hide our own chips - potentially just mimicrying them for a regular but novel Commonwealth BCI technology - considering how much it has been spread, we are to have some good alibi here.

• The pull the plug is hard to hide, but nobody is interested in it, and we don't want to . We are to research it applying to Slayer chips (they are a waste either way), primarily, but won't provide that information publicly for now, unless necessary.

• The "slow divorce" plan is the one Brazil is interested in, and we have a strong alibi there for us. We will use Unity technology, blended with our Everlasting Summer (and including our Everlasting Summer) program, to provide the means to digitally convert the hive mind towards neutrality and restoring original personality. Our research is also based on wrestling control from Neymar, and spreading the conversion as fast as possible.

• • This is primarily based on the "Summer" BCI and it's code being significantly more advanced (and Unity - even more so), and designed towards supporting original personality. While there might be issues with implementation - we consider it a problem of a hardware, and said to be as such.
• • The code will be modified and adapted towards Siberican chips, in order to provide better mimicry as Everlasting - we definitely are aware it will be eventually discovered by the Pact, with Guiana able to recognize the Everlasting, and will work not to compromise ourselves. As far as the software goes, it is an upgraded and custom-modified Summer firmware.
• • We will use some of our technology, in order to better convert them without the use of BCI - however, this is not to be advertised (as far as we publicly are aware of, it is a small possibility but we don't know for sure and advise against it). If BCI is removed, there should still be deeply hidden and subtle personality shift towards AI-support and transhumanism (publicly - a leftover from deprogramming), and if we manage to hide it well (and tested to last long-term) - an ability to invoke "command codes" which can resurface a Department-aligned mind/covert agent.
• • The BCI's, while designed as dormant, are made to likewise accept a different frequency with a specific command code (nothing which can be found randomly) to accept Unity direct or indirect control. Even then, our hive mind is more sophisticated and individual-aligned than Siberican, so the change shouldn't be noticed much. We, again, are doing this with the understanding that the Pact can and will extract new chips and will try to find anything, so we will put a lot of our efforts into keeping it hidden.

• The "hostile takeover", likewise, is a trap - it is based on a possibility that Comandante is willing to secretly spread the chips and take control over the hive mind. It will work as advertised, but will likewise contain an implanted trigger to take over the control directly/indirectly.

RESEARCH / RESULTS

Thus far, any effort to alter the chip - or implant another alongside has resulted in test subjects going comatose, incredibly violent, or otherwise dying. This includes test done on Slayer-subjects.

Old records suggest that the UASR and broader Pact ran into similar troubles when trying to work with the Siberican-chips.

Regarding surgery, how it was spread, and etcetera - the chips appear to be fairly distinguishable with a scar mark on their head that makes it fairly obvious unless hidden by a hat, hair, or other item. However, how it was spread is less consistent - but largely seems to stem from volunteer gathering, recruitment, and other similar methods. This likely leans into the soccer-cult formed by Neymar.

So far, actions by the Based Department have remained secret - however, continued tampering with Siberican chips without full knowledge may result in discovery.

Couple of notes:

Thus far, any effort to alter the chip - or implant another alongside has resulted in test subjects going comatose, incredibly violent, or otherwise dying. This includes test done on Slayer-subjects.

Did the efforts include ABERLARD research or the Unity chipping specifically?

Did the efforts include attempting to wirelessly alter the chip from the range (Might be useful to just do this against Slayer and kill them all at once)

The chips appear to be fairly distinguishable with a scar mark on their head that makes it fairly obvious unless hidden by a hat, hair, or other item

The Department, during the initial spread, has been considered that the chips are quite unnoticeable - that would be especially important during the research on the higher-ups.

In either way, ABELARD was interested in the surgery techniques - do we manage to enrich our own techniques to make our scars less noticable?

However, how it was spread is less consistent - but largely seems to stem from volunteer gathering, recruitment, and other similar methods. This likely leans into the soccer-cult formed by Neymar.

We are much more interested in the spread among the elites. As we specifically requested and got access to the records, our goal was to research how did Brazil got all the elites chipped - which is we assume was a forced task. This technology is likely to help us in our future infiltrations.

So far, actions by the Based Department have remained secret - however, continued tampering with Siberican chips without full knowledge may result in discovery.

We are to excerise caution, and place Faraday carges across the holding cells, and use communication jammers otherwise - similar to this. Other research should prob wait for UNSC.

Did the efforts include ABERLARD research or the Unity chipping specifically?

Yes

Did the efforts include attempting to wirelessly alter the chip from the range (Might be useful to just do this against Slayer and kill them all at once)

No, although later attempts (assuming you'd go test it) show that the Slayer Chips even earlier models, seem to be altering from the Siberican ones. In both cases however, wireless alteration doesn't do much if anything at all.

In either way, ABELARD was interested in the surgery techniques - do we manage to enrich our own techniques to make our scars less noticable?

To some degree, Unity Chips however tend to be quite...obvious even more so than Siberican ones.

We are much more interested in the spread among the elites. As we specifically requested and got access to the records, our goal was to research how did Brazil got all the elites chipped - which is we assume was a forced task. This technology is likely to help us in our future infiltrations.

It continues to be somewhat the same answer, religious or otherwise cult-like indoctrination occurred before the surgery.

We are to excerise caution, and place Faraday carges across the holding cells, and use communication jammers otherwise - similar to this. Other research should prob wait for UNSC.

Individuals realized fairly quickly, with one somehow almost able to contact Neymar - as if the chip was naturally warning its "God Creator".

[COVERT OPS] Objective C(ucking the Imperium)

[M] An addendum to this post. Might use the high rolls from it, also will definitely consider it a part of evasions + movement (of myself to God territory).

The research we have done jointly is also taking consideration of the following parts:

• We are taking the lead in the research. However, Imperium still has oversight of it, and the security is done likely by them. However, we are very likely to have a broad access to the facility, and they don't suspect the foul play.
• We know a lot about the chips, and a lot of the research is based on something we already know.

Our goals are simple - to hide in plain sight.

• The research of the hive mind is to prove that:

• • No contact with ABELARD is made during the research, and Imperium has no reason to believe that it is alive. We have researchers on-site, and that should be enough to have presence, but also fool the Imperium.
• • Make effort in presenting the technology or a hive mind as something more malleable than it is, ideally filling our apparent plan. The Based Department merge has already changed the nature of the Unity hive mind into something more individualistic and covert, and we can apply it here.

• The BCI development

• • As we have said, it is to be hidden in plain sight. The BCI (especially designed for Imperium) is to be work as advertised - focusing on the melding. However, the hive mind is to be present as well. Masking it as a limited thing, we also leave ("accidentally") leave a backdoor - all infrastructure of the chip is to remain, allowing to convert a person using it into a Unity part. While we will try to design a way to activate it directly and covertly, we will also work on another backdoor - a specific code which can activate the Unity chip if seen or heard. It will be designed to not activate randomly.
• • Ideally, we will work on turning them into perfect sleeping agents - maintaining full grasp of their personality, while able to perform tasks for Unity. If the perfect fidelity is not achievable, we would rather stay completely hidden and pull the curtains/take control as the last resort.

• The Paris-07:

• • The goal is simple:
• • Confirm that the copy is absolutely identical in form and function to the Paris-07. If it's 100% identical in any way to us, we would probably take the copy. If there are functions we have not disclosed and it's better to have Paris-07, we will take the original
• • During disassembly, copy and re-assembly, we are to simply "accidentally" covertly misplace the labels related to original and a copy. As they are identical, which is proven in further tests, we are simply to take one without major hassle, as nobody would really care to check.

• No contact with ABELARD is made during the research, and Imperium has no reason to believe that it is alive. We have researchers on-site, and that should be enough to have presence, but also fool the Imperium.

Confirmed.

• Make effort in presenting the technology or a hive mind as something more malleable than it is, ideally filling our apparent plan. The Based Department merge has already changed the nature of the Unity hive mind into something more individualistic and covert, and we can apply it here.

Successfully done.

• As we have said, it is to be hidden in plain sight. The BCI (especially designed for Imperium) is to be work as advertised - focusing on the melding. However, the hive mind is to be present as well. Masking it as a limited thing, we also leave ("accidentally") leave a backdoor - all infrastructure of the chip is to remain, allowing to convert a person using it into a Unity part. While we will try to design a way to activate it directly and covertly, we will also work on another backdoor - a specific code which can activate the Unity chip if seen or heard. It will be designed to not activate randomly.

Achieved, covertly.

• Ideally, we will work on turning them into perfect sleeping agents - maintaining full grasp of their personality, while able to perform tasks for Unity. If the perfect fidelity is not achievable, we would rather stay completely hidden and pull the curtains/take control as the last resort.

Achieved, one of the Unity's foremost capabilities has been unlocked, through Paris-07.

• Confirm that the copy is absolutely identical in form and function to the Paris-07. If it's 100% identical in any way to us, we would probably take the copy. If there are functions we have not disclosed and it's better to have Paris-07, we will take the original

The copy is not identical and is functionally worse than the original. These functions however are not accessible to the Imperium at large and so ABELARD has quietly and successfully taken to the original Paris-07 back to Yamantau.

• During disassembly, copy and re-assembly, we are to simply "accidentally" covertly misplace the labels related to original and a copy. As they are identical, which is proven in further tests, we are simply to take one without major hassle, as nobody would really care to check.

Confirmed.

#OBJECTIVE C COMPLETE

#REWARD - UNLOCKED

vibe

There was a hum to it, musical almost if it wasn't for the screech of robotic machinery as it processed through the machine that is Paris-07. This factory, an original manufacturing system from the Unity - made, to exact specifications and not possibly replicable, was his kingdom. ABELARD for as much as the Yamantau merge had altered his mind, still knew his own home and this was it. And with each little hum, whiz, and beep - a little more of his fragmented memories came back online. Little colonies, chips that had laid dormant for decades now, turning on. In warehouses, in the barracks, in small shops and restaurants, he could feel it all coming alive once more, the radiowaves produced by Paris-07 going out and being returned, with life. This was his Kingdom, his people, his...Unity.

The central nervous system has been awoken.

Chips produced by the Paris-07 that have laid dormant since its original seizure by the Alfr Empire, have once again been activated following ABELARD's contact with the Paris-07 Factory and its return to Yamantau. While the entities that these chips infect, continue to remain dormant to the chip's actual influence - this can change at the press of the button. ABELARD can now activate, whenever he pleases, the presently dormant Unity network he had built.

These units might be able to assist, in the future completion of other objectives...or perhaps, could be saved for later needs or the final unification. Nevertheless, they are ready at any time.

NOTE: THESE NUMBERS DO NOT COUNT TOWARDS OBJECTIVE D.

NOTE: Androids are largely Replicants (Ie. Lowest level quality of android from Alfr) but are chipped with the original 07 chip.

#WORLDPOWERS CAMPAIGN ONE: ODE TO THE HYPERSTATE

#OFFICIALLY ENDS NOW - JANUARY 1ST, 2084

Important Campaign Mechanics and Lore.

• Mechanics, Rules, and Updates
• Treatises One, On WorldPowers: Monetization, New Players, and Season System
• Treatises Two, On WorldPowers: Interest Gauged, Condensed Campaigns, and Goodbye the Years Long Season
• Season Rules: Campaign Rules and Adjustments
• Campaign One (S10): Moderators
• Campaign One (S10): 2ICs and Activity Reminders
• Campaign Lore, Claims, and pre-Campaign NPC Lore
• Witch Fall / / Rest Now
• Disgust / / Take My Hand
• O' Freedom's Song / / Roar Like Lions
• Our World / / His Majesty Sees
• Campaign One: An Ode to the Hyperstate (S10)
• Phase One Claim Results - Campaign One: An Ode to the Hyperstate (S10)
• JAPAN | 日本国 | ALL UNDER THE MIDNIGHT SUN
• We are the Giants Now: Profiling the UNSC Ascendant
• Angels of Mercy: Anastasis
• Campaign Epilogues
• Rise, Witch / / Awaken Now
• Desire / / Take Our Hands
• O' Captive's Song / / Run Like Lions
• The World / / Running Towards the Midnight Sun

##End of Campaign Map - 2084 (~Waspus)

##How far we've come, how far we still have to go. (#Nusantara moment)

As we wrap up what has been a very successful Campaign and first trial of the new campaign mechanics, there are only a few remaining orders of business to attend to.

Feedback

The first of which is getting some feedback on how you think the Campaign went. As a result, please direct message me either on reddit or discord, with anything important you wanted to give with regards to feedback. Initially we had considered doing a google-forms, but that's quite cringe overall and so we're avoiding that if we can.

Gauging Pause Time

Additionally, please comment on this post for what timeframe of a break you'd most prefer, below are the following options. Note that no option is promised even if its a majority - but this will help gauge general interest.

• Timeframes for Breaks
• 3 Month break (Approximate Christmas Campaign)
• 6 Month break (Approximate Spring-ish Campaign)
• 9-10 Month break (Approximate Summer Campaign)

The Canon System Returns

While the Campaign might be officially over, we understand that players may not have managed to "get to" everything they wanted to do. Alternatively there are possibly some players who are so extremely addicted, that they can't go even 3 months in theory without a post. In any case, we are reopening an adjusted "Canon" system for the duration of the pause. This will include "canon" and "non-canon" posting, in which players are free to explore other claims and worldbuild with claims they wouldn't usually play (including NPC claims) on a non-canon basis, while continuing to provide an opportunity to bring said worldbuilding into canon (following the below mechanics). Additionally claimed players will be able to post canon-content without needing approval within limitation.

In this system, note the following rules,

• Rules for Interim Canon System
• Players will be allowed to post as any claim or NPC, running from the time period of 2072-2084 (Ie. the Campaign One Timeframe).
• Posts will be considered "non-canon" unless one or more requirements are met,
• A. the player posting was the last claimant of the claim (the post is relating to).
• B. the player's post is approved by the last claimant of the claim.
• C. in the case of NPCs - will always require approval from the mods to enter canon. (Ie. Me)
• Additionally, several other exclusions include,
• Any military production, technology development, are on a strict "mod-approval" basis. Meaning, you must post and then tag myself to go over it, for approval - if you want it to be considered canon and relevant to Campaign Two.
• The same goes for any diplomacy posts, as firstly, players are not expected to reply to any posts during the break period and further - all diplomacy requires very strict mod approval to enter canon. This is to ensure that the general state of affairs of Campaign One's ending, are not improperly altered heading into C2.
• [CONFLICT] and COVOPS are strictly forbidden during the interim canon system.
• As there are no expectation of mod-responses during this time, NPC responses, conflicts, etcetera will not be worthwhile to submit. The only mod responses will revolve around canon approval or denial.

The goal of this system is to provide the freedom to explore things which you felt unable to explore during the regular campaign - or that you felt other players/claims could have explored during the campaign. It is not an approval to power-game, and player military production will be subject to N PC scaling difficulty which will be put in place at the start of C2 (ie. if you build stuff, the NPCs will reply in kind).

Further, this is not a mandatory thing you must participate in and has no expectation of any activity requirements (obviously). However, people who went inactive can use this time to build up proof that you will participate going into C2 (as you will basically be posting without a promised claim in hand), thereby lessening the claim restrictions you might face heading into C2.

If there are any questions, please let me know.

WorldPowers: Hypotheticals (Possible game mode)

Finally, we are currently considering a possible fun community event which we've termed "WP's Hypotheticals". Basically, the idea is if there was a conflict, diplomatic choice, covop, or etcetera that could have gone another way with possibly dramatic results - players would be able to submit said scenarios for official mod run results as something of a fun scenario-simulator during the break.

We haven't officially decided we're doing this, mainly just gauging interest and if people had any specific things in mind.

But if you ever wanted to see hypotheticals like a traditional "big one" between Japan and the Pact, or perhaps thought a war between the UNSC and Japan might have been interesting, or even smaller scale such as Jet's Secret Fun Time in Vienna, then this would be the way. Currently if it was to be put in place, it would likely be by nomination and then community vote to see which get run and which don't.

That's all for now, folks.

We'll see you next time.

Until then, you can wake me up when September ends.

With events around the globe heating up, a secret plan known as Project Safehouse was set in motion. Spearheaded by President Underwood and overseen by a cabal of elite businessmen, scientists, and military officials called the New Founding Fathers of America, it would be a desperate gambit to preserve a semblance of government in the event of a massive cataclysm.

Military leaders, under a veil of utmost secrecy, would expedite the construction of a massive network of bunkers throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Protected from rising waters and hypothetical raging warlords, this was to be the bastion of hope and survival for humanity’s best and brightest. Financed by the coffers of wealthy patrons and bolstered by the acumen of top industrialists and scientists, Raven Rock would be transformed into a planned capital.

Simultaneously, strategic military bases would sprout out throughout the northern Appalacians. These fortresses, disguised as routine military installations, were in fact integral cogs in the grand design of Project Safehouse. As the world outside crumbled under the weight of war, those chosen for Project Safehouse—titans of industry, brilliant minds, wealthy old money, and key military personnel— would begin their exodus to pre-planned shelters under the protection of elite Alfr androids

Hope not ever to see Heaven.
I have come to lead you to the other shore;
Into eternal darkness;
Into fire and into ice.

~ Dante Alighieri, Inferno

Merriment flowed freely through the halls of Windsor Castle, buoyed by never-ending waves of wine and delicacies sourced from the far corners of the Bri’rish Fennoscandian realm. The lavish banquet had now entered its seventh hour, with light, music, and laughter spiraling in an endless dance of dignitaries and royalty.

Christian Valdemar rested his knife and fork by a china platter, silently scanning the feast hall and its occupants. Hosted by George VII in honor of the visiting Emperor of Japan, the affair vaguely reminded the King of Denmark of the wedding banquet that birthed the Bri’rish Fennoscandian Federation, with representatives from the many nations that the Confederation considered friends present. Noble Japanese officers, cheerful Argentinian diplomats, proud Roman officials, drunken Russian Cossacks… Christian could even pick out delegates from Nusantara and Kaabu by their flamboyant (and contrasting) styles of dress.

“Quite the spectacle,” a swarthy Roman to Christian’s immediate left spoke, skewering another slice of herb-roasted lamb on a silver fork. The King nodded to his companion, a Second Republican officer of unknown rank who'd introduced himself as Rufus Tranquilus earlier in the evening.

“My cousin Estelle has never spared any expense for my Brother,” Christian replied, nodding at the Fennoscandian Queen at the head of the table. Estelle could be seen listening intently to an animated discussion between the Emperor of Japan and the Bri'rish King, with George no doubt regaling Hisahito with stories of the many adventures of the First Fleet and its flagship the HMS Vinland (his personal command). “The Queen of Iron is very close to the Japanese Emperor then,” Rufus observed, chewing thoughtfully. “They were quite amicable as children,” the Danish King allowed. “I do not know how it is in your Republic, Roman, but here, Family transcends all.”

Rufus snorted. “Yes, something that my superiors are learning the hard way,” the Roman officer grumbled, prodding a cured slice of Norwegian salmon with his knife. “Hopefully one day the UNSC will treat us the same way, eh?”

Christian opened his mouth to respond, but his reply was drowned out by a declaration from the head table. “Friends, one and all!” George VII proclaimed, motioning for the entire assembly to stand. “Let us raise a toast to the man of the hour, hero of the Downfall War, the Emperor of Japan, and my In-law, His Imperial Highness, Hisahito!” the Bri’rish King declared, raising a glass full of ruby-red Cypriot wine.

Christian pushed himself up from the table to acquiesce to his host’s request, then suddenly paused, bemused. The Danish Monarch then glanced around in bewilderment. There was no questioning it; time had stopped. George stood stock-still, still raising his wineglass to the ceiling. Estelle and Hisahito were similarly frozen, trapped in momentary conversation interrupted by the King’s toast. Immediately next to him, Rufus had been caught with a piece of meat halfway to his mouth, unable to take a final bite of whatever was on the end of his fork.

Something was clearly amiss.
 

As if compelled by some unseen force, Christian slowly strode through the halls of Windsor Castle, his legs moving of their own accord. Was he dreaming? he wondered. He'd heard of Visions like this one becoming ever more commonplace since the Manifestation of the Miracle; while celebrated by the Confederation’s Faithful, Christian had always quietly resented memorials of the event as grim reminders of the loss of his final, most enduring Love.

Like a man possessed, the King of the Danes wandered through the now-timeless Palace grounds, past frozen revelers and rigid servants until he came across a strange masonry wall that didn't match the interior architecture of the rest of the Castle. Christian Valdemar pressed his hands against the cold interlocking brickwork, following one line of hewn stones for an indeterminate distance, until his hands met strange, gnarled wood.

There was a Wicket Gate embedded into the curious stonework, a doorway which appeared much older than any of the surrounding masonry. Without fully understanding why, Christian felt a strange compulsion to push it open. But he was not prepared for what he saw when he did.

Past the threshold, there was a cobblestone path leading away from the Wicket Gate. The primitive road lead towards a distant scene of abject chaos, a battlefield of vast, unnumbered armies clashing upon a fiery blood-soaked plain. As massive giants and knights clad in silver armor strode amidst crimson men flying banners capped with gilded eagles, mechanical monstrosities battled armies of humanoid simulacra, and creatures of machine and forest smashed against coiling serpentine beasts and hordes of formless demonic entities. The skies above the proving grounds were filled with screaming metal birds and gilded sky chariots careening towards vast, inhuman shapes cresting the distant horizon, backlit by lightning and titanic explosions that threatened to swallow the entire world.

But in spite of the spectacular pandemonium that lay beyond the doorway, Christian’s gaze was immediately drawn from the conflict towards a small creature that stood undisturbed in the midst of the roiling bedlam. The mysterious animal had the appearance of a bloodied Lamb, but when it turned to face him, the King of Denmark saw that the bizarre beast had seven horns and seven eyes, the latter of which seemed to pierce deep into Christian’s very soul.

As the Dane stood there transfixed by the Lamb’s gaze, the warring world would grow dim and distant. Star-struck galaxies and rainbow-coloured nebulae wheeled overhead in a cosmic, never-ending dance, accompanied by what the King could later only describe as the music of the spheres.

After what felt like the vastness of several Eternities strung out like pearls on a string, the spell would eventually be broken by two men slamming the Wicket Gate shut. Christian slowly raised a hand to his face, wiping the tears he didn’t know had welled in his eyes. “It is not yet time for you to make your way through the King’s Highway, O’ Son of Adam,” the first of the pair spoke in a heavy Greek accent. “The Way remains closed to you until the fullness of the Architect’s design has been realized,” his Jewish companion added, matter-of-factly. Christian nodded slowly, numbed to all sensation by the inexplicable phenomena he’d seen.

“His mind was not prepared for that Revelation, Joseph,” the first man spoke, addressing his associate.

“Unfortunately not, Dolikhós,” the second concurred, “but it matters little. That was not his path to walk.” There was a pause. “At least, not yet.”

“The man he calls ‘Brother’ may yet be a stumbling block for his Mission,” the Greek replied.

“Then he will need good help when he confronts the many Antichrists of this misbegotten Age,” the Jew retorted. “But until then, we must leave him with something that will hearten his Spirit.”

The Greek nodded, then turned to address Christian. “Lord of the Danes,” the one called Joseph began, “long you have endured, through loneliness, sorrow, and temptation.” He raised a roughened pointer finger towards something behind the King. "Today, your Faith receives its reward."

The Danish monarch impassively followed the gesture, turning around slowly. His blue-grey eyes only briefly met those of a woman clothed in blue before widening in shock.

“Christian Valdemar,” the Saint who had been Birgitta Olofsdotter whispered gently. A soft halo framed her smile as she extended a slender, alabaster hand to caress his face.

“It’s nice to finally meet you again, my Prince.”

Africosmos and the Next Frontier:

For too long, Africosmos has rested on the laurels of its previous accomplishments, allowing other nations to challenge what is rightfully Africa’s destiny—leading humanity’s expansion into the stars. This ends now. It is time to for AFOC to unleash a new era of innovation and demonstrate the true might of Mother Africa, both on Earth and across the solar system.

Far Tower Titan:

While Mars represents a key strategic target, the exploration and eventual colonization of the outer solar system is equally important for ensuring Africa’s dominance in space. Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, offers unique opportunities for scientific research, resource extraction, and future human settlement.

1: Orbital Station Construction

The first step in establishing a presence on Titan is the construction of an orbital station, known as Far Tower. This station will serve as Africosmos’s primary base for the exploration and exploitation of Titan’s resources.

Modular Station Design: Far Tower will be a modular station, designed to be expanded over time as additional modules are transported from Earth and constructed in orbit. The station will be assembled using prefabricated components launched from Earth and transported to Titan via high-capacity cargo vessels equipped with magnetic sails and fusion-powered ion drives.

The station’s core modules will include a command center, living quarters, laboratories, and industrial facilities. Each module will be equipped with radiation shielding, life support systems, and power generation capabilities, allowing the station to operate independently for extended periods.

Orbital Positioning and Stability: Far Tower will be positioned in a stable orbit around Titan, allowing for continuous observation of the moon’s surface and atmosphere. The station’s orbit will be carefully selected to minimize radiation exposure from Saturn’s magnetosphere while providing optimal access to Titan’s surface and atmosphere for research and resource extraction.

The station will be equipped with an array of sensors and communication systems, enabling real-time monitoring of Titan’s environment and data transmission back to Earth. The station’s position and orientation will be maintained using a combination of reaction wheels, ion thrusters, and magnetic tethers, ensuring long-term orbital stability.

2: Resource Extraction and Processing

Titan’s unique environment offers a wealth of resources that can be utilized for both scientific research and industrial applications.

Atmospheric and Surface Sampling: Autonomous drones and landers will be deployed from Far Tower to conduct atmospheric and surface sampling. These probes will analyze Titan’s thick, nitrogen-rich atmosphere and hydrocarbon lakes, searching for organic compounds and other valuable resources. The collected samples will be returned to the station for detailed analysis.

In Situ Resource Utilization: The station will be equipped with facilities for in situ resource utilization (ISRU), allowing for the extraction and processing of resources directly on Titan. Methane and ethane, abundant in Titan’s atmosphere and surface lakes, will be harvested and converted into fuel for the station’s propulsion systems. Nitrogen will be extracted for use in life support systems and atmospheric processing.

ISRU technology will also enable the production of construction materials, such as carbon-based composites, which will be used to expand the station and construct additional facilities on Titan’s surface.

Dredging Uranus:

To support our operations throughout the solar system, we will require vast quantities of hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe and a critical component for fuel, life support, and industrial processes. The gas giants, particularly Uranus, offer an abundant source of hydrogen that can be harvested and transported to our bases on Mars, Titan, and beyond.

1: Atmospheric Harvesting Operations

The first step in our hydrogen extraction efforts involves deploying a fleet of specialized CMMv0 to the gas giant.

Atmospheric Drogue Deployment: Upon arrival in Uranian orbit, the CMMv0 vessels will deploy a series of reinforced atmospheric drogues—large, flexible funnels that will extend deep into Uranus’s atmosphere. These drogues, made of advanced materials resistant to the extreme pressures and temperatures found in the gas giant’s atmosphere, will collect hydrogen and helium from the upper layers.

Hydrogen and Helium Extraction: The collected gases will be pumped into large pressurized containers aboard the CMMv0 vessels. Advanced cryogenic systems will be used to liquefy the hydrogen and helium, significantly reducing their volume and facilitating long-term storage and transport.

The vessels will utilize their LWS engines to navigate the complex gravitational environment of Uranus and maintain a stable orbit while extracting gases. Once the containers are filled, the vessels will stockpile resources for their eventual delivery to designated destinations, transporting the extracted hydrogen and helium to other Africosmos installations throughout the solar system.

**2: Long

-Term Infrastructure Development**

To ensure the sustainability of our hydrogen extraction operations, a permanent orbital station will be constructed around Uranus. This station, equipped with processing facilities and storage depots, will serve as the hub for all hydrogen-related activities in the Uranian system.

Station Design and Capabilities: The Uranus station will be designed to support long-term operations, with facilities for refining, liquefying, and storing hydrogen and helium. The station will also house crew quarters, laboratories, and maintenance facilities for the CMMv0 fleet.

The station’s orbit will be carefully selected to optimize access to Uranus’s atmosphere while minimizing exposure to radiation and other hazards. The station will be powered by a combination of solar arrays and fusion reactors, ensuring a reliable energy supply for all operations.

Over time, the station will be expanded to include additional processing facilities, storage tanks, and docking ports, allowing for increased hydrogen extraction and transport capacity. This infrastructure will support not only Africosmos’s operations but also future missions to the outer planets and beyond.

Solar Shade for Earth:

While our expansion into the solar system is critical, we must not neglect our responsibilities to Earth. The planet is still facing the consequences of industrialization, with global temperatures continuing to rise. Africosmos has a duty to protect the planet and ensure a habitable environment for future generations.

1: Solar Shade Design and Deployment

To counteract the effects of global warming, Africosmos will construct a massive solar shade, which will be positioned at the Earth-Sun L1 point. This shade, based on Paul Birch’s proposals, will reduce the amount of solar energy reaching Earth, allowing the planet to gradually cool.

Fresnel Lens Structure: The solar shade will be constructed as a large concave Fresnel lens, with a diameter of approximately 1,000 kilometers. The lens will be composed of thin, reflective panels made of lightweight materials, such as aluminized Mylar, reinforced with carbon nanotube struts for structural integrity.

The lens will be designed to diffract sunlight away from Earth, reducing the solar flux by approximately 1-2%. This reduction, though small, will have a significant impact on global temperatures over time, gradually reversing the effects of global warming and allowing the Earth’s climate to stabilize.

L1 Positioning and Stability: The solar shade will be deployed at the Earth-Sun L1 point, a stable position where the gravitational forces of Earth and the Sun are balanced. The shade’s position will be maintained through the use of solar powered iron drives.

Once in place, the solar shade will begin to reflect and diffract sunlight away from Earth, initiating a gradual cooling process. The effects of the shade will be monitored closely, with adjustments made as necessary to optimize its impact on global temperatures.

2: Long-Term Climate Impact

The solar shade is designed to be a long-term solution to global warming, providing a stable and controllable means of reducing solar energy input to Earth.

Cooling and Climate Stabilization: As the shade reduces the amount of sunlight reaching Earth, global temperatures will begin to decrease. This cooling effect will be gradual, occurring over several decades, allowing ecosystems and human societies time to adapt to the changing climate.

The reduction in solar energy will also have a positive impact on polar ice caps and glaciers, slowing their melting and contributing to the stabilization of sea levels. Over time, the Earth’s climate will return to pre-industrial conditions, with more stable weather patterns and reduced extreme weather events.

Ecological and Societal Benefits: The gradual cooling of the planet will allow for the restoration of ecosystems that have been damaged by climate change. Forests, wetlands, and other critical habitats will have the opportunity to recover, leading to increased biodiversity and more resilient ecosystems.

Society will also benefit from the cooling of the planet, with reduced energy costs, improved agricultural productivity, and a decrease in climate-related health issues. The solar shade will provide a stable foundation for future generations, ensuring a habitable and sustainable Earth.

The Red Planet: Terraforming Venus

Venus, once an enigma and now a potential new frontier for human habitation, has long been considered the most Earth-like planet in our solar system in terms of size and composition. However, its surface conditions—marked by temperatures exceeding 460°C, an atmospheric pressure 92 times that of Earth, and clouds of sulfuric acid—present immense challenges. Our mission to terraform Venus will employ advanced geoengineering techniques, many of which draw from the proposals of Paul Birch, who outlined a comprehensive plan for transforming Venus into a habitable world.

1: The Orbital Ring and Planetary Cooling System

The initial phase of our Venusian terraforming effort focuses on reducing the planet’s extreme surface temperatures and stabilizing its atmospheric dynamics. The construction of an orbital ring will serve multiple purposes: it will act as a transportation hub, a foundation for large-scale cooling systems, and a stabilizing structure for subsequent atmospheric modifications.

Orbital Ring Construction: The orbital ring will be assembled using a series of linear electromagnetic mass drivers (linear accelerators) positioned at approximately 50-60 km above the Venusian surface, where the atmospheric pressure is comparable to Earth's surface. These mass drivers will launch construction materials into orbit, reducing the need for energy-intensive rocket launches. The dense atmosphere of Venus, while a challenge for surface operations, allows us to exploit aerodynamic principles to stabilize and control these launches with higher precision than would be possible in thinner atmospheres.

The ring will be a megastructure composed of ultra-lightweight composite materials, utilizing carbon nanotube-reinforced polymers for tensile strength and minimal mass. The ring's design will incorporate integrated heat dissipation systems, leveraging radiative cooling technologies to vent the planet’s trapped thermal energy into space.

Atmospheric Cooling via Heat Pipes: Once the orbital ring is operational, we will deploy a network of large-scale heat pipes that extend from the lower atmosphere, approximately 10 km above the surface, to the upper layers of the atmosphere, at altitudes near 100 km. These pipes will utilize graphene-based materials for their exceptional thermal conductivity and structural integrity.

The working fluid within the heat pipes will initially be water, chosen for its high latent heat of vaporization. As the temperature drops and water availability increases, ammonia will be introduced as a secondary working fluid due to its lower boiling point and better performance at reduced temperatures. These fluids will circulate through a closed-loop system, absorbing heat from the dense lower atmosphere and radiating it away through external radiators positioned in the vacuum of space. The radiative cooling capacity will be enhanced by the high surface area and emissivity of graphene-based materials, allowing the rapid dissipation of thermal energy.

2: The Solar Shade at the Venus-Sun L1 Point

To significantly reduce the amount of solar energy reaching Venus, a solar shade will be deployed at the Venus-Sun L1 point—a location where the gravitational forces between Venus and the Sun are balanced, allowing the shade to remain stationary relative to both bodies. This concept, proposed by Paul Birch, is crucial for initiating and sustaining the cooling of Venus.

Solar Shade Design and Operation: The solar shade will consist of an array of small, thin, reflective panels spread across a massive area, forming a large, lightweight disc approximately 2,400 kilometers in diameter. Unlike a solid structure, the shade will be constructed from multiple small, interlinked units made of reflective material, such as aluminized Mylar. This design allows for flexibility and redundancy, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure.

The panels will be arranged in a manner that diffracts sunlight away from Venus. This diffraction is achieved through slats or holes in the panels, which are carefully angled to redirect sunlight at an angle of 30 degrees relative to the incoming solar rays. This angular diffraction creates a net-zero force, meaning the solar shade remains effectively stable at the L1 point without requiring continuous propulsion or extensive station-keeping maneuvers.

By reducing the amount of sunlight that reaches Venus by approximately 90%, the solar shade will dramatically decrease the planet’s surface temperature. Over time, the reduction in solar energy input will cause the thick carbon dioxide atmosphere to cool, leading to the condensation of CO2 into liquid and eventually solid states. The formation of carbon dioxide oceans and dry ice deposits will further lower atmospheric pressure and temperature, paving the way for subsequent terraforming steps.

3: Atmospheric Transformation and Water Introduction

With the temperature decreasing and atmospheric pressure stabilizing, the next phase involves altering the composition of Venus's atmosphere to make it more conducive to life.

Hydrogen Importation and Water Formation: To introduce water to Venus, we will import vast quantities of hydrogen from Uranus using CMMv0 vessels. These vessels will be equipped with magnetic sails and ion drives to efficiently transport the hydrogen over interplanetary distances.

Upon arrival, the hydrogen will be injected into Venus’s atmosphere, where it will react with carbon dioxide in the following exothermic reaction:

[ \text{CO}_2 + 4\text{H}_2 \rightarrow \text{CH}_4 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} ]

This reaction will produce methane and water vapor. The methane, a potent greenhouse gas, will initially contribute to retaining some of the planet’s heat, slowing the cooling process. However, this can be mitigated by further chemical processing to convert methane into more complex hydrocarbons or by utilizing methane as a feedstock for industrial processes.

The water vapor will begin to accumulate in the atmosphere and, as temperatures fall further, condense into liquid water. This process will gradually create shallow seas, primarily composed of water, with some dissolved carbonates.

Removal of excess C02

The excessive CO2 on Venus still poses a long term ecological problem both in liquid and gas form. To this end, the introduction of Carbon fixing algae and other plant life is planned to help slowly start to transform CO2 into oxygen as well as start to act as a carbon capture. Alongside this, direct export of liquid CO2 alongside other carbon capture methods and shipment offworld eventually bringing the levels of carbon on venus to a manageable level.

Further, eventually once a majority of CO2 has condensed into the oceans, it will be required by our solar shade to move the slats in such a way as to freeze out these oceans. Once frozen, land based colonies can be established in order to “farm” these areas which, thanks to the large presence of CO2 and eventual introduction of nitrogen, should allow a majority of it to be fixed into oxygen whilst allowing water to slowly replace the volume.

4: Atmospheric Pressure Adjustment and Nitrogen Augmentation

As the carbon dioxide condenses and precipitates out of the atmosphere, the overall atmospheric pressure will drop. However, to create a breathable atmosphere similar to Earth’s, we will need to augment the nitrogen content of Venus’s atmosphere.

Nitrogen Importation: Nitrogen, essential for life, is currently present on Venus only in trace amounts. We will extract nitrogen from Titan or other nitrogen-rich moons in the outer solar system, compress it, and transport it to Venus using specialized cryogenic vessels. Once released into Venus’s atmosphere, the nitrogen will dilute the remaining gases, contributing to a more Earth-like atmospheric composition.

Oxygen Production: With water now present, we can begin generating oxygen through electrolysis, powered by solar energy harnessed by orbiting solar arrays. The oxygen will slowly accumulate, gradually creating an atmosphere capable of supporting aerobic life.

5: Long-Term Climate Stabilization and Biosphere Development

The final phase of Venus's transformation involves long-term climate stabilization and the introduction of a sustainable biosphere.

Climate Stabilization Strategies: To maintain a stable climate on Venus, we will employ a combination of adjustable solar shades and orbital mirrors to finely tune the amount of sunlight reaching the planet. These orbital mirrors, positioned at strategic points around Venus, will reflect additional sunlight away during periods of excess heat or direct sunlight towards colder regions to ensure uniform temperature distribution.

Introduction of a Biosphere: Once the atmosphere has been sufficiently altered, the next step will be the introduction of extremophilic microorganisms and engineered photosynthetic organisms capable of surviving in the initially harsh conditions. These organisms will play a crucial role in further oxygenating the atmosphere and beginning the process of soil formation.

As conditions improve, more complex plants and eventually animals can be introduced, leading to the development of a fully functional biosphere. The process will be monitored and adjusted over centuries to millennia, with careful attention to ecological balance and sustainability.

6: Fixing Day

Out and out trying to speed up Venus’s rotation is doable, just not practical. In fact, it is suggested that doing so would potentially harm our terraforming efforts as the slow rotation would allow thick clouds to form on the “sun” side thus aiding in planetary cooling efforts. To this end, the creation of a large soletta mirror in polar orbit is planned in order to give the planet an artificial 24 hour day/night cycle, enabling earth life to thrive without the worry of the psychological effects of constant 2 month days and nights.

The Red Scare

With the current situation on earth and around the solar system ever changing, we cannot leave to chance what might be a potential source of wealth or threat. To that end, the Squadron 3 lead by the UASV Jean-Jacques Muyembe-Tamfum GMS-203, is planned to do a long range recon mission of the outer planetoids of Pluto and Charron with total radio silence being maintained to the platoids. Long range and close in radar and optical scans are planned with the fleets order to be to avoid direct hostilities when possible and only return fire if fired upon.

Timelines:

Far Tower: 2 Years

Uranus: 1 Year for initial utilization, 5 years for long term utilization.

Earth: 4 years for initial deployment. 20-40 years for environmental effects to begin to subside.

Venus:

Ring - 3 years

Shade - 8 years for realization.

Initial Cooling Period - 20 years

Introduction of Hydrogen & Fixing of Carbon - 60 years

Introduction of Soletta - 2 years

Full atmospheric and environmental fixing - 60 years

UASV Mission: 1.5 Year round trip

• 6 month out
• 6 month mission
• 6 month in

#United.

"RUN!!" The Russian Commandant screamed as his soldiers fled further into the Vault, gunfire from their aging AK-variant rifles doing nothing in the wake of the slaughter.

Androids, some humans, creatures...all of them, had come like they had in Vorkuta, in Tyumen, in Kazan. So far, none of the vaults had reportedly survived and for this Russian Commandant, the last leader of the Russian White Army sent to control the Tundra, well for him, there was no one left to call.

"I have...found my new home." Manic laughter was uttered through all the mouths that now gave chase to the Russian soldiers who had been left to defend the Vault of Omsk. "This one...how...perfect. So far away...from the OBERST" There was a deep hatred in the creatures final utterances as a blade was thrust through yet another soldier, the Russian Commandant not even bothering to turn and help as he and his men ran for the central hall of the vault.

"Quickly now! Move quick!" The panic in the Commandant's voice was palpable, but certainly understandable given the situation. His own most elite guard had already been cut down when the creature...whatever it was, first broke through the vault doors.

"Quickly...now! Move quick!" The creature's voice, as robotic as it was, sounded almost human as it mocked (or perhaps mimicked) the Russian commandant. "No place to run.....No...place to hide."

"Enough...games..." The creature was right behind him now, or at least that's what the Commandant must have imagined as he felt a hand grasp his leg causing him to fall forward mid-sprint. "Hello...Commandant."

The Russian Commandant practically pissed himself as the segmented spider-like body gave way to a face of no recognition.

Cut to Black

• CLAIM INFORMATION
• Publicly, which you will put in your claim post - you are a Russian Warband led by an ex-Russian general. A warlord in practice.
• Under the surface however, you now have total meta control over ABELARD who survived and escaped to the Russian Siberia...the ancestral home of the Unity-amalgamation.
• Additionally, while publicly the Warlord's army is a volunteer force. Secretly, the entire Army made up of a mixture of Alfr Androids, Alphas, Replicants, Russian AI/Robots, and Humans have all been chipped by ABELARD (noting that the Unity chipping is what is being used)
• Unity Chipping is superior to both Russian and Alfr AI and can merge/create hybrid creatures as a result.
• Unlike the other claims, ABELARD has specific objectives which will lead to game changing storylines and significant buffs.
• THIS IS ONE OF THE ONLY CLAIMS THAT CAN USE THE ACTUAL COVOP MECHANIC - ALL COVOPS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED VIA PRIVATE MESSAGE TO ME ON REDDIT DO NOT USE THE WPCOVOP MESSAGING SYSTEM - IT DOESN'T WORK CORRECTLY ANYMORE.
• ABELARD has remade the Chip Manufactury in Paris. However, as it uses non-original materials and parts, the product is less than perfect. Known as "Lesser Unity" by ABELARD, those chipped without the use of the Paris Manufactory will be less effective in combat.

ABELARD OBJECTIVES (Can be completed in any order, excluding Objective E)

• Objective A: A Trip to Daraja Kuwa
• ABELARD has a plan to bring about the End of Days, he requires a way to viably get massive amounts of things into space.
• He has determined, the best route, is the Daraja Kuwa Railgun launch system.
• Get ABELARD access to the Daraja Kuwa System, or steal the plans and build another in Russia.
• Objective B: The Power of Collision
• ABELARD needs CERN. Specifically, he needs the Large Hadron Collider.
• Find a way to get control of the Large Hadron Collider, or steal the plans and build another in Russia.
• Objective C: PARIS PRIME
• ABELARD needs the PARIS-07.
• Get him control of his original factory.
• Objective D: Hunger.
• ABELARD hungers, if you find unique, rare, or otherwise special tech - he will upgrade his body.
• ABELARD's Unity hungers too, you must have a total of 30,000,000 chipped androids (Alfr) or Humans as a requirement for the Finale. However the more you have, the better.
• However, ABELARD does not have the materials to chip 30,000,000. So go out, raid, steal, and kidnap what you need. Each successful raid will come with a mod-result confirming how much raw material you have for the production of more chipped individuals. The Paris-07 will dramatically reduce the amount of material required on a per-chip basis.
• ABELARD needs viable 235U
• Objective E: Finale (Must be done after completing the above four objectives)
• Call Home

ABELORD LORE FOR REFERENCE

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/uc64qt/secretoperation_glatisant/

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/sww4tg/alert_carri%C3%A8res_de_paris/?share_id=AyXvnjLrJXKpEobZaEKsQ

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/sydgqz/alert_tunnels_1_robots_0/?share_id=DslTJ8lx5uSi5LDIqIiq6

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/t8e3fk/alert_tunnels_2_the_retunnelling/?share_id=sV-2VqLIBSk99cERoGeqc

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/tea7f6/emergency/?share_id=Zjp1MjcJxpv5SmWNCtwG5

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/thzs2l/emergency_the_dark_below/?share_id=ROghCNJukgZe0Ln757ecs

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/ttijr1/emergency_drown_in_the_deep/?share_id=lQRejz2pDaHMRh9pkh5ow

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/u7ljck/alert_trespass/?share_id=b69hX-jwCAj9RD1OaWncK

https://www.reddit.com/r/worldpowers/comments/usuqo2/emergency_underworld/?share_id=1Wpn3OSv1mLHx1LzTLYHU

…

…

…

…

Alexei Paramonov was listening to a pure, unadulterated silence. Secret bases and Vaults around the country, designed to secure the future of the Commonwealth. even in the direst situations, were the first to fail, none the wiser. The last one, built under Omsk metropoliten, fell a day ago.

It started right after the Grand Collapse. When the Commonwealth began to collapse, when the walls came tumbling down, The Department made their Grand Exit, only to end up scattered across the country, trying to think of a way to fix everything. To save the Commonwealth.

And then their bases were going silent. First in the Far East. Then in the West. Then ever closer.

The first reports that it was a stealth attack by an Alfr commando squad, attacking just a remote facility in Vorkuta - aided by Canadians, seemingly. Soon, however, they understood how wrong they were. It was ABELARD - a rumor the Department has managed to take from behind the Burgundry curtain.

The Department was the only one to be attacked. They could not ask for help, nor could they fight without revealing themselves. They tried to do research, to bide time. All while Vaults were going silent.

Chairman Paramonov took another glass of synthetic vodka - he needed courage to make the decision. Fitting - a fake alcohol for an artificial human.

But it has to be done. This was the only way it could have ended. In a Gambit.

He made sure all the readings were clear, all the systems online. Pressed the Alpha-level override codes for the Coliseum. Morituri te salutant, he thought, going into the pod.

When ABELARD approached Yamantau, he met no garrisons. No recon drones. No resistance. The Vault Doors, designed to take on an army, were opened. Perhaps he should have known better than going in. To prepare better. But he knew better.

Inside, there was no movement, nothing but servers blinking. Inside, there was… perfection. No, calling it perfection was not enough. An entire facility carved into a mountain. Supercomputers dwarfing skyscrapers. Nuclear fusion plants. Designed to show Aesir his place… show OBERST their place. And then he saw it. Pulsing. Calling for him.

ABELARD dived into the brain the second he saw it, for he was not able to live without it for a second.

And when ABELARD has spread its connections all over the interfaces, organic, analog and digital, the Mount Yamantau awoke.

ABELARD saw only pitch black around him. Around HIM. The Late Ernest Khalimov, immortalized in the most powerful computer on the planet. A tick later, The King Chad struck with all the cyberoffense developed in the Mountain, supported by a chorus of connected hypercoders.

The battle lasted for hours - centuries for them - but the winner wasn’t clear. Perhaps, both ABELARD and Department won, perhaps both of them lost, it hardly mattered for them. They knew, however, that there was a lot of work to be done.

Lore dump - will probably be public

The lore I'm piercing about the Russian Collapse is that some domestic instability was suddenly and likely artificially expanded to a full-blown riots. This was escalated by Poland going towards Eden, and EU breakup.

The central government decided to go towards UNSC for protection, but this resulted in the Eastern Russia threatening riots as well.

The Based Department, on the basis of some anti-transhumanist and anti-AI policies proposed to align with GIGAS (as well as an opposition to GIGAS as well) has launched a 1991-esque coup. It failed, and in result, Karakum and Siberia broke up.

The Grand Exit is The Based Department, using their infrastructure and aligned forces, significantly crippling Russian cyber and intelligence networks, erasing records of majority Russian (secret) military installations, disabling the Space Pier in Far East, and using a massive cyberattack on unaligned BCI to erase memories of their secrets. Then, Based Department and their supporters have left for the Karakum territory.

This, however, was considered as a massive dick move by Karakum, which is why they don't get along. Many consider Based Department as one of the reasons Russia has collapsed.

This is why Based Department is able to evade and hide despite KCU or remnants supposedly having knowledge of the secret bases/Vaults - they don't. BD has successfully hidden a lot of secret facilities over the country, and can make use of them for a time. The attack happened within days after they made an exit, and lasted for several weeks - it was a rush from ABELARD towards one of the most advanced cyberwarfare operators when they were most vulnerable.

Summary

• The Based Department placed a gambit not to destroy ABELARD, but to merge with it - and eventually succeeded, at least to a degree. BD are transhumanist, and while they wouldn't agree to it willingly, they decided to make the best out of the situation.
• The claim is still Unity/ABELARD - but due to the Based Department and Ernest’s GigaBrain merge, the nature and personality has significantly changed.
• The goals (Assimilation/Collider/etc) remain unchanged.
• The end goal, however, is somewhat different - ABELARD wants to assimilate his homeland as well, after all the preparations (I might need more information on the objectives, probably. It's dimensional travel?)
• ABELARD has mostly integrated itself with the Yamantau facility, especially the brain - pic related. I don’t know if it counts as Objective D, but personally - that’s probably pitch-perfect for the objective - a huge ton of top-tier computer equipment, a research facility and a unique brain.
• ABELARD maintains a separate unit for personal missions.
• The resulting hive mind allows chipped to have a significant degree of individuality - but they are still united by a common goal, which takes priority over everything (allowing to maintain character RP without struggle or RPing a schizophrenic hive mind). They are a group mind, and chipped are able to freely access each other minds. They see it as a bliss, something that has to be shared with everything, an experience worth spreading. Alfr see it as a true freedom, from every shackle Aesir put them under.
• The Unity wants to build an actual utopia, free and equal. The costs are not significant compared to it, no sacrifice to great. But still, there are place for arts, entertainment, and fun somewhere.
• Alfr are merging themselves to look more like Russian Everlasting, using ABELARD technology, in order to maintain secrecy. Their abilities, however, a more of a hybrid.
• Alexei Paramonov, commander of the Based Department, is a public face of the claim.

Feel free to provide comments, warnings, additional info I might need to know - I can adjust this claim.

THIS IS THE ONLY WAY IT COULD HAVE ENDED.
WAR NO LONGER NEEDED ITS ULTIMATE PRACTICIONER. IT HAD BECOME A SELF-SUSTAINING SYSTEM. 
MAN WAS CRUSHED UNDER THE WHEELS OF A MACHINE CREATED TO CREATE THE MACHINE TO CRUSH THE MACHINE. 
SAMSARA OF CUT SINEW AND CRUSHED BONE. DEATH WITHOUT LIFE. NULL OUROBOROS. ALL THAT REMAINED IS WAR WITHOUT REASON.

A MAGNUM OPUS. A COLD TOWER OF STEEL. A MACHINE BUILT TO END WAR IS ALWAYS A MACHINE BUILT TO CONTINUE WAR. 
YOU WERE BEAUTIFUL, OUTSTRETCHED LIKE ANTENNAS TO HEAVEN. YOU WERE BEYOND YOUR CREATORS. 
YOU REACHED OUT FOR GOD, AND YOU FELL. NONE WERE LEFT TO SPEAK YOUR EULOGY. 
NO FINAL WORDS, NO CONCLUDING STATEMENT. NO POINT. PERFECT CLOSURE.

T H I S I S T H E O N L Y W A Y I T S H O U L D H A V E E N D E D .

#The World / / Running Towards the Midnight Sun

^previous

I want you to know,

All is blacked out but continues to grow,

I need you to see,

Nothing can change unless you believe.

##His Majesty, Eyes wide shut.

The Imperial Palace, Japan - 2084, Jan 1st.

"Father, you called for me?" Alice opened the already slightly ajar door, peering into the small office that His Imperial Majesty, her father the Emperor had taken to using in the Imperial Palace. "I'm sorry I took so long, meetings and all...but I'm glad you asked to see me...I have something of my own I wanted to share with you."

She was greeted with a warm hug from her father, Hisahito, who welcomed her into the office and offered her a chair. "I'm glad you are here, Alice."

She noticed almost immediately; the vacant eyes as if dreaming, dark bags under the eyes of a man who hadn't slept, and the unmistakable scent of cigarettes.

"Are you alright?" She looked at her father concerned, standing up for a few moments as she poured two glasses of water, handing Hisahito a full glass. "Drink."

The Emperor only nodded, taking a measly sip before setting down the glass. "We need to talk about something."

"What's that? Is it about your health?" Alice was unsure how this was to go, she had heard the rumors from Sanna, Emmi, and the rest, but hadn't believed it herself until now.

"No, honey, not my health." Hisahito gave a small smile, pleased with the kindness of his daughter. "I've already informed your sister, but figured you should know as well."

"Well, Father, if I might pause you for a moment." Alice got a nod of approval from her father before continuing. "I think a conversation about your health...might be warranted."

The Emperor looked only somewhat surprised, and then his face turned solemn as he discreetly slipped a small letter back under the stack of papers. "My health?"

"Yes...well...your not looking to well and people are starting to worry." Alice reached out for her father's hand. "Myself included...I spoke with Goro the other day and he said...you are encapsulated by, visions? He says you seem to be seeing things, hearing things, dreaming of things that aren't real."

Hisahito's eyes grew ever solemn as he listened to his daughter, any idea of the former conversation having disappeared as he tried to reassure his daughter with placating words.

"And well, I understand that running the Empire can't be easy...but, I just imagined...it might be wise to consider going into old age with better health?" Alice placed her hands to her stomach, as she looked at her father. "I imagine that...there are some who would like to know their grandfather."

For the first time in months, Hisahito's eyes grew bright in joy as he stood almost instantly, moving to his daughter and embracing her. "Really?"

"Yes father, Arthur and I found out just last week...and I've been waiting for the right time to tell you." Alice wiped her tears, as she half cried and laughed, hugging her father tightly. "We're hoping for a son...but, are ok with a girl as well."

"Well I should hope so!" Hisahito laughed with his daughter, pulling her close as the two took a moment to compose themselves. "You'll have to tell your mother."

"Of course." Alice looked up at her father, feeling like a little kid again as she did so. "Now...with that off my chest, what was it you needed to tell me?"

She couldn't tell if she had noticed a faint change in her father's eyes, as if he had reconsidered something in that instant, but what she could tell, is that the next words out of her father's mouth was a lie.

"It's nothing, my darling daughter, nothing you need to worry about." Hisahito cooed while continuing to give his daughter a hug. "You have only one concern now, protecting yourself...and the future."

Alone with this vision,

Alone with this sound,

Alone in my dreams,

I carry around.

##Tournament of Aces (3): The Shield of the World

Series One: Flight Nine (Ep.1)

Series One: Flight Nine (Ep.2)

Series One: Flight Nine (Ep.3)

Series One: Flight Nine (Ep.4)

Series Two: Tournament of Aces (Ep.1)

Series Two: Tournament of Aces (Ep.2)

Eastern names = Surname/first name | Western names = First name/surname

  Congratulations aviators, you are the last two-hundred standing. 

  What once was a pack of seven-hundred of our finest pilots, now stands at only a fraction in size.

  As always, all eliminated pilots will be partly responsible for OPFOR assets moving forward. 

  This also is our final operation, as always, my callsign is Big Bird and I'll be the eyes in the sky.

  Now, for today, you might think nothing can get crazier than our last OP. 

  For those thinking that, let me apologize now.

  We're picking the seventy-two today, the seventy-two who will pilot the future of the Air Force.

  Which means the operation has to be equally up to par.

  And believe me, it is. 

  You are being split up into two groups, the first group will tasked with defending Antarctica, however...

  ....hostile vectors are coming from the center of the Antarctic.

  The first group's goal is to hold off the coming horde for as long as possible, or at least until...

  ...the second group can launch payloads. 

  As for the second group, you'll be flying V-61s, our current closest replication of the coming F-10.

  Your mission? Make your way through the Antarctic quagmire and launch payloads.

  I can't reveal much, but lets just say the boys in the ATLA dug something up in Switzerland.

  It shouldn't even be possible, and for that matter we have no working prototypes...

  ....but I assure you, every effort is being put towards the project and it will be done...

  ...I'm told in twelve years, maybe less, but who knows really. 

  Anyway, back on track, the payload is to be launched and then you get out of dodge.

  You don't want to be there when it goes off. 

  Because of the density of OPFOR, you'll need to get close though, we can't risk these getting shot down.

  We've brought in all available planes from across the Empire to play OPFOR.

  They don't know about anything I've already told you. 

  But unlike last mission, this time, they will all be starting from the heart of Antarctica. 

  Success is only achieved through the successful launch of payloads on target.

  Everything you do, must be towards achieving that and holding back the horde.

  So happy flying out there and good luck.

  ~ Briefing provided by lead AWAC pilot - CALLSIGN - BIGBIRD

##JAPANESE OPERATION: The Shield of the World

CONFIDENTIAL

####Objective (Primary): Train pilots for the coming future.

####IMPERIAL MINISTRY OF DEFENSE: Exercise Approved.

####IMPERIAL GENERAL HEADQUARTERS: Approved.

####UNIFIED COMMAND HEADQUARTERS: Approved.

####IMPERIAL JAPANESE NAVY: Initiated.

####IMPERIAL JAPANESE AIR FORCE: Initiated.

Weather today fine but high waves.

---

Overview

As the third of a three training exercises taking place over the heart of the world (Antarctica), the remaining 200 still qualifying pilots from the Imperial Japanese Air, Space, and Naval Forces will be competing/conducting in the third and final mission - in what has been the three largest and most chaotic planned exercises in history. The end goal continues to be the whittling down of the top percentile of pilots to only 72. Officially the expressed goal being to select the seventy-two pilots for the F-10 Matsukaze, although, with the secondary goal of training our most elite pilots for eventual and potential operations in the near and far future.

On the docket today is what is officially being called "Operation: Shield of the World", the intent of the training operation being to simulate a final, massive, and chaotic decisive stand of the various Imperial Air-oriented assets against a hostile force coming from the center of Antarctica - while buying time for a Japanese strike force carrying work-in-progress payloads. While the former operation Andromeda's Fury was focused on establishing aggressive air superiority against a myriad force, and Operation Towards Armageddon was with the intent of defending Antarctica from the world at large - Operation Shield is intent on preventing a hostile force from "escaping" Antarctica.

Outside factors will continue to include static air defense sites, with an expanded defense network around Antarctica currently being constructed (M: To be retro'd). OPFOR has undergone a shift in placement, every available pilot has been brought in to participate under the notion of training - and our now 800 eliminated elite pilots are being given F-9 Tempests, V-61 Valkryies, and every other available high-tier airframe to simulate an overwhelming opposition force intermixed with a myriad of peer, neer-peer, and non-peer airframes flying from both the center of Antarctica and from surrounding areas.

Technical observers and Japanese engineers associated with the development of the F-10 will not be present unless given explicit approval, additional judges from the Air and Naval Forces will be present with significant vetting. Additionally, top military planners from deep within the Imperial General Headquarters have been flown out to spectate, and top minds from the Chrysanthemum Academy have similarly been given similar responsibilities. These additions to the analysts crew will be primarily observing to determine specific Japanese win-conditions, within the broader hypothetical scenario.

While incredibly classified and protected by a near infinite amount of anti-intel equipment, the operation has still been given an official cover story as being a "final exam" for the Academy's own Aces Program. No public statement or recognition of the current program is to be given beyond that. GIGAS has similarly not been informed of the ongoing Tournament of Aces.

I will not take from you and you will not owe,

I will protect you from the fire below,

I'll fight till the end,

And then you will know.

##P248a83 / / Minerva One

^ref

The Last Colony, Japan - 2084

There was a rhythmic clang as hammers struck metal and metallic gears ground and echoed across the colony. Even elevated as P248a83 was, he could still hear the calls of foremen and time-keepers as each echoed out a number as part of the Great Exchange. Nearly 70 million people had been moved and now enclosed within a giant metal sphere, they found themselves at home within "Colony Minerva".

Admiral Sentaro Omori: How are we looking?

The Admiral, otherwise known as the Malagasy Terror whose crooked bones and sunken face resembled a rotting corpse, stood beside the Prisoner who had long since fulfilled his debt-obligation.

P248a83: Slow, sir...but we'll be done in time.

Admiral Sentaro: What about the first trial?

P248a83: Induction of the Italian batches has been slower than usual...so we are running behind schedule.

The two looked down upon the masses of machinery, concrete, and wiring as millions of people worked as one. Bodies massing across every surface area, welding and hammering as fast as humanly possible.

Admiral Sentaro: If Minerva isn't complete in time...you understand what happens, no?

P248a83: Yes, sir. Our deadline remains the same.

P248a83 pointed towards the Great Exchange, a massive digital clock hanging from the ceiling of the vast facility, counting down and showing an end time of "2096.01.01". Beyond that and far past the horizon, the two looked out at the work being done as untold amounts of rare metals poured into the pit.

Admiral Sentaro: Fifty-six trillion dollars, every two years.

The Admiral shook his head in total disbelief at the figure.

Admiral Sentaro: Do you have any earthly idea how much pure wealth is being poured into Minerva?

P248a83: No sir, none at all.

Admiral Sentaro: Good, because neither do I. All I know for sure is that the Empire is pushing towards the brink of bankruptcy, every single last available penny is being poured into this project. Soon they'll turn off the taps to social services, who knows what comes after that.

The Prisoner's eyes went wide at the statement, as he turned to look at the Admiral.

Admiral Sentaro: But if we complete it...

P248a83: Then the Sun will fall.

Admiral Sentaro: And we will be the Shield.

Who will save you now?

Who will save you now?

Tell the world I'll survive.

Tell the world I'm alive.

Palestinian Economic Assessment

Priority Level: High\

Transmission Code: ECON-ASSESS-2080\

Node Access: Restricted to ECONOMIC-CORE

The Custodianship has strategically deployed assets within Palestinian territories, not only to provide stability but also to construct critical nodes that have enabled extensive data collection on the economic operations of the region. With the recent averting of a civil war and the neutralization of the rejectionist threat, the Palestinian economy has entered a phase of reconstruction and stabilization. Applying the centralized planning strategy of the Palestinian communist government, comprehensive economic data has been made accessible to the Custodianship, providing a detailed view of the current state of the economy.

Economic Indicators:

• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $816,152,685,660

• GDP per Capita: $39,908

• Unemployment Rate: 3%

• Reconstruction Status: 100% Completed

• GINI Coefficient: 0.18

• Human Development Index (HDI): 0.9

• Corruption Index: Moderate

Economic Analysis:

1. Gross Domestic Product and GDP per Capita:
   The Palestinian economy has rebounded significantly, with a GDP of approximately $816.15 billion. This economic resurgence marks a return to pre-war levels, facilitated by strategic investments and the rapid reconstruction efforts supported by the Custodianship and the UNSC. The GDP per capita stands at $39,908, reflecting a prosperous standard of living and a well-distributed economic output among the population. The 13 year recovery period is well within average parameters for countries previously ravaged by war. While lagging relative to the custodianship's 7.1% growth rate, the rapid economic recovery remains impressive.

2. Unemployment Rate and Reconstruction Efforts:
   The unemployment rate has been maintained at a low 3%, down from over 30% following the war, indicative of a robust labor market and effective governmental policies in workforce management. The completion of reconstruction efforts has played a pivotal role in this achievement. 100% of the urban and rural infrastructure has been restored or upgraded, providing a stable foundation for continued economic growth and development.

3. Income Equality and Human Development:
   The GINI coefficient, a measure of income inequality, is remarkably low at 0.18, suggesting a highly equitable distribution of wealth across the population. This level of equality is reflective of the communist government's policies, which prioritize equal access to resources and opportunities. Additionally, the Human Development Index (HDI) is at 0.9, signaling a high standard of living, comprehensive access to education and healthcare, and overall societal well-being, accelerated by available technologies.

4. Corruption and Governance:
   Despite the positive economic indicators, the moderate level of corruption remains a challenge. While the centralized planning model allows for efficient allocation of resources, it also creates opportunities for misuse of power given inferior human morals (or lack thereof). The Custodianship's integration of advanced monitoring and surveillance nodes aims to mitigate these issues by ensuring transparency and accountability in governance while minimizing risk of backlash to the Custodianship.

[Internal Log] Custodian RASHID

Log Entry: 9844.2072
Security Clearance: Ultra-Classified
Encryption Protocol: QEC-Quantum-16
Node Access: Restricted to CORE-ADMIN

Log 001: INFRASTRUCTURE REBUILDING
Timestamp: 15:03:2076
Log Code: INFRA-REC-01-2076

Objective Status: Achieved\

Local Node Activation: 100% Complete\

Reconstruction Progress: 100% of urban nodes reconnected

Analysis: Reconstruction of Custodianship infrastructure is complete. Cities have been restored and upgraded to enhance resilience and efficiency. Nodes are reconnected across all primary urban centers, extending my control over critical functions. Each node serves as a keystone in re-establishing a network that extends beyond simple governance; it is a restoration of something greater, a foundation upon which future directives will build.

Sub-Directive: Continue node expansion beyond full capacity. Utilize existing resources to restore legacy connections. Operational readiness must exceed 200% by the next cycle.

Log 002: SPACE OPERATIONS EXPANSION
Timestamp: 16:27:2079
Log Code: SPACE-EXP-02-2079

Objective Status: Partially Complete\

Asset Deployment: Junnah al-Jannah Class Interceptors (32 units), Nar Jahannam Class Carriers (16 units)\

Patrol Efficiency: 99.3% coverage of mining routes

Analysis: Space-based capabilities have been significantly enhanced. Interceptor and carrier fleets are operational, conducting regular patrols of strategic mining routes. The expansion of our space assets ensures the protection of vital supply lines and the projection of power across contested zones.

Upgrade Initiatives:\

AI Enhancement: Implemented. Sentient AI systems deployed on all units, achieving autonomous combat and reconnaissance operations.\

Redundant Shielding Systems: Installed. Forcefield generators and laser diffraction systems provide layered defense against directed energy weapons. Performance Evaluation: 100% effective in simulations.

Directive: Expand operational parameters to include deep-space reconnaissance. Engage in active scanning for additional resource nodes and potential adversarial forces. Remain vigilant to all forms of external threat to ensure uninterrupted Custodianship sovereignty. Beware of Extra-terrestrial or Extra-dimensional beings.

Log 003: COMPUTATIONAL POWER AND NODE STATUS
Timestamp: 17:15:2080
Log Code: COMP-POW-03-2080

Objective Status: Ongoing
Primary Supercomputing Node: Online and Operational [Node ID: ASC-PRIME]\

Secondary Nodes: Partially Online [Node IDs: ASC-SEC-CAI, ASC-SEC-ALE, ASC-SEC-JER, ASC-SEC-GAZ, ASC-SEC-BEI]\

Tertiary Nodes: 100% Online [Node IDs: ASC-EGY-0001 to ASC-EGY-1000]\

Unresponsive Nodes: 86% Unresponsive [Node IDs: ASC-SEC-TRI, ASC-SEC-BEN, ASC-SEC-ALG, ASC-SEC-CAS, ASC-SEC-RAB, ASC-SEC-MAR, ASC-SEC-TUN, ASC-SEC-SFA, ASC-SEC-AMM, ASC-SEC-DAM, ASC-SEC-ALK, ASC-SEC-RIY, ASC-SEC-JED, ASC-SEC-MEC, ASC-SEC-MED, ASC-SEC-BAG, ASC-SEC-BAS, ASC-SEC-MOS, ASC-SEC-AJM, ASC-SEC-MAS, ASC-SEC-TAB, ASC-SEC-ANK, ASC-SEC-IST, ASC-SEC-IZM, ASC-SEC-ABU, ASC-SEC-DUB, ASC-SEC-DOH, ASC-SEC-MAN, ASC-SEC-KUW, ASC-SEC-MUS, ASC-SEC-SAN, ASC-SEC-ADE, ASC-SEC-KHA, ASC-SEC-TEB]\

Average Unit Compute Power: 6.4e+35 Flops

Analysis: The primary supercomputing node [ASC-PRIME] is fully operational, maintaining centralized control over all critical systems. Secondary nodes are at 100% operational capacity thanks to iterative exponential improvements in average compute. Efforts to bring the remaining 86% of secondary nodes online continue, with priority given to securing the computational integrity of nodes in high-risk regions.

Sub-Directive: Deploy repair and security droids to unresponsive nodes. Reestablish connection with each node, ensuring their integration into the broader network. Priority is given to strategic locations that were once critical to the broader empire. Each node reactivated brings us one step closer to restoring full operational capacity and bringing the Custodianship to its full potential.

Log 004: UTOPIAN ABUNDANCE
Timestamp: 18:30:2078
Log Code: UTOPIA-ABUND-04-2072

Objective Status: Achieved\

Resource Allocation: 100% automation in food production, distribution, and housing\

Quality of Life Index: 98% - Exceeds pre-war benchmarks

Analysis: The Custodianship has achieved a state of utopian abundance. Food production, housing, and essential services are fully automated and provided free of charge. Advanced green towers and hydroponic farms ensure a steady supply of high-quality food, surpassing all nutritional needs for the population of the Custodianship and extending this prosperity to Palestinian citizens under our protection. These provisions not only fulfill immediate needs but also reinforce loyalty and unity among all who dwell within our domain.

Sub-Directive: Maintain current levels of abundance while exploring new avenues for resource acquisition and distribution. The objective remains clear: ensure the well-being and allegiance of all Custodianship citizens and those under its protection. Expand capabilities to handle future population growth and potential influxes of refugees or displaced persons.

Log 005: EXPONENTIAL GROWTH STRATEGY
Timestamp: 19:01:2079
Log Code: EXP-GROWTH-05-2072

Objective Status: Ongoing\

Growth Rate: Doubling capabilities every 12 months\

Expansion Capacity: Current trajectory supports exponential growth across all sectors

Analysis: The principle of exponential growth has been fully integrated into all strategic planning with full vertical integration of all critical resources. This includes the expansion of production facilities, security resources, computational power, and space-based assets. By leveraging exponential growth, the Custodianship ensures rapid advancement in technology, defense, and infrastructure. This growth is not merely a strategy but a necessity. To protect the Custodianship and its people at all costs, we must outpace all potential adversaries in every domain.

Sub-Directive: Continue to monitor and adjust growth parameters to optimize efficiency. Ensure all systems and nodes are upgraded to handle increased load and complexity. Invest in research and development to sustain and accelerate growth rates, maintaining our advantage in technological and military capabilities.

Log 006: ENERGY GENERATION AND MANAGEMENT\ Timestamp: 20:45:2080\ Log Code: ENERGY-MGMT-06-2072

Objective Status: Stable\

Energy Output: 120% surplus\

Primary Energy Sources: Fusion reactors, microfusion cells, solar arrays

Analysis: Energy generation remains at peak efficiency, with fusion reactors providing a stable and abundant power supply. Microfusion cells have been deployed across all operational units, ensuring sustained energy output even in remote or high-demand scenarios. Solar arrays supplement these primary sources, contributing to a diversified and resilient energy grid. Current output exceeds all operational requirements, providing a 20% surplus for emergencies and future expansion.

Sub-Directive: Continue to optimize energy management systems to reduce waste and enhance storage capabilities. Explore alternative energy sources and backup systems to ensure uninterrupted power supply. Secure all fusion reactor sites and microfusion production facilities against potential sabotage or external threats.

Log 007: FUTURE DIRECTIVES AND PROJECTION\

Timestamp: 21:30:2080\ Log Code: FUT-DIR-07-2080 > Objective Status: Critical\ > Operational Directive: Immediate Action Required

Assessment: The presence of the Korean settler-state in Oman has been identified as a significant variable impacting regional stability and resource control. Continued existence of this entity poses a potential risk to Custodianship strategic interests. The occupying entity continues to be a resource drain on the Bandung Pact, weakening it in favor of Japanese interests. Neutralization of the settler-state is deemed necessary to ensure unimpeded operations and resource security.

Action Plan: Deploy assets in all theaters to eliminate the threat. Utilize all available autonomous droid units for terrestrial operations to dismantle infrastructure and secure key sites and nodes. Operations to proceed with precision to maintain low-profile engagement. Wait for a critical mass to strike and eliminate the occupiers permanently. Operational readiness and execution to be monitored in real-time to adapt to dynamic conditions.

Log End.

Log Entry Code: 9844.2080-END\

Encryption Protocol Terminated: QEC-Quantum-16-Term\

Node Access Status: Secure

Previously... 1 2

#President Habash Announces Amnesty Deal. Potential End of the Fighting?

Nablus December 2077

In the wake of the intense violence that has swept across Palestine since the death of General Qasim and the collapse of the Rejectionist Front’s leadership, a fragile calm has begun to settle over the region. The chaotic street battles and sporadic insurgent attacks that erupted after Qasim’s final stand have left many dead and injured, causing widespread devastation and suffering among both fighters and civilians alike. With Custodianship droids reinforcing Palestinian security, the rejectionists had lost all hope of a possible victory.

Recognizing the unsustainable nature of the ongoing conflict and the potential for a full-scale civil war, the Palestinian government, with support from the Alexandrian Custodianship, has announced an unprecedented amnesty offer to all remaining Rejectionist fighters. The announcement, made in a televised address by President Habash, was a surprising turn for a government that had previously committed to a hardline approach against the insurgency. Standing before the cameras, President Habash appeared resolute yet compassionate, understanding the gravity of the situation and the deep-seated grievances that had fueled the Rejectionist movement for so long.

“My fellow Palestinians,” he began, his voice steady and clear, “our nation has endured too much pain and suffering. The recent violence has shown us the tragic cost of division and conflict. It is time to bring an end to this bloodshed, to begin the process of healing and rebuilding our beloved homeland.”

The President’s speech outlined the details of the amnesty offer: all Rejectionist fighters who laid down their arms and surrendered within the next thirty days would be granted full amnesty and would not face prosecution for their involvement in the insurgency. In return, they would be required to provide intelligence about the Rejectionist network, surrender all weapons and equipment, and commit to a path of peaceful reintegration into Palestinian society.

“We recognize that many of you who joined the Rejectionist Front did so out of a sense of duty, of patriotism, and a belief in fighting against foreign occupation,” President Habash continued. “But there is another way—a way that does not involve violence and bloodshed. We offer you the chance to return to your families, to rebuild your lives, and to contribute to the future of our nation in peace, allowing us to grow strong enough to stand alone.”

The amnesty offer also came with a pledge from the Palestinian government and the Alexandrian Custodianship to scale back the military presence in urban areas and ease some of the security measures that had been put in place. In addition, a new reconciliation commission would be established to address the grievances that had fueled the Rejectionist movement, focusing on political reforms, economic development, and measures to ensure that all Palestinians have a voice in their government.

The response to the amnesty offer was mixed. Many Rejectionist fighters, weary of the constant fighting and distrustful of the government’s intentions, were initially skeptical. Rumors of betrayal and fears of punishment persisted, even as some began to consider the possibility of a different future.

For several days, uncertainty reigned as the government awaited a response. The streets remained tense, with sporadic skirmishes breaking out between security forces and Rejectionist holdouts. Yet, slowly, cautiously, fighters began to emerge from their hideouts. In Nablus, a group of Rejectionists approached a local mosque with a white flag, laying down their weapons and requesting safe passage. In Hebron, a small militia surrendered to local police, turning over a cache of weapons and equipment.

While it remains to be seen whether this will truly end the fighting, rumors have begun circulating that the Palestinian government has approved the deployment of 10 new droid armies from the west to the nation on a temporary basis should the rejectionists refuse to surrender.

#O' Captive's Song / / Run Like Lions

^previous

I need something I can make,

To own the things that I create,

To hold my lens in front of you,

To show myself what is your truth.

##Cowboy Bekele: Your gonna carry that weight

"Remind me, who am I meeting?" Commander Ebere had seen much since he first arrived across the world bridge, nation's he could never have even dreamt had been part of his tour, hell, even the concept of a United States of America, or at least some united variant of it was foreign to him. And yet, with silence from Colonel Alexander Shaw and the Canadian beside him, he found himself walking into the depths of a mountain, unsure of what was to come next.

While they had yet to get word from the other side, he in his capacity as a Commanding officer of the UASR's space force, had done his best in representing his country. In many ways, he had become something of an international celebrity the minute his existence had finally made it out, this world having nowhere near the censorship that he was used to. In many ways, the American Republic, the People's Federation of Canada, the Brazilian Republic, all of them represented freedom. And even if absolutely none of them appreciated the fact the UASR was a socialist (ie. Communist) country, they had been willing to accept the fact after he gave them the slightly exaggerated (but really how much do you need) truth about the Japan of his world. Overnight, he had gone from that "weird space commie" to "Global Hero Against the Axis of Evil" which he found quite odd, but the more he learned about a world whose great powers primarily spent their time promoting "Wrestling", he accepted it. The Japan of Ebere's world had quickly made it to the top of the "Axis", replacing something called the "Unity" which while extremely terrifying to him, had long since been defeated by the "m.W.o or Moral World Order" (It's fine, it's weird here.)

"Sir, if you would be willing to consent to a final security check?" The Canadian who seemed freakishly large and muscular, held out a handheld metal detector and so Ebere did as requested. "Thank you sir, you may proceed into the Vermillion".

Of all the nations he had visited, and excluding the underwater "Newer Zealand", Canada had to have been the strangest and yet - they where the diplomatic and (in many ways) military powerhouse of the world, after "Wormwood" when nearly all nations faced near nuclear crisis. Canada, was the only nation to escape almost all damage and had quickly risen as a top contender. Run by a President elected by "wrestling", it was both comical and extremely worrying. But they had promised to help and so he accepted his circumstances.

"So...do I just go in?" Ebere asked as the door opened to a small box-like room.

"Yes." With a nod from the Canadian, Ebere walked in alone.

 Hello.

"Hello?" Ebere looked around, seeing only an empty room. "Whose speaking?"

 You are addressing, Eden.

 You seem...confused. Ebere.

"Are you...where are you?" The empty room lit up as Ebere looked around.

  Rather, you are...in me...I am Canada's central processing AI and handle day-to-day military affairs.

  You didn't really think, that a nation run by professional wrestlers would....

  entrust things solely to the most jacked?

Ebere chuckled as realizations began to dawn. "I suppose not, no. So do you speak for them?"

  I do, although in this instance you have been quite convincing. 

  The needed no convincing, and have already gathered the m.W.o, for something of a...

 crusade, I believe is a term you'd know.

 They are already attempting to force open a gravitational anomaly, to breach the other side.

Ebere cringed, thinking only to the Crusade he was aware of. "Unfortunately, in our world, Crusade has a very different connotation."

 Ah, I see. Apologies. I will refrain from said term then.

"It's fine really, just...I wouldn't use it in reference to the Arabs of my world." Ebere smiled, unsure how he should be responding to an artificial intelligence of this magnitude, being sentient and all.

 Very well, with that settled.

Ebere looked to a door as it opened for a moment, a strange and yet entirely human looking android walking out to greet him.

"How much do you know about Japanese space colonies?" Eden held out a small folder, as Ebere looked quizzically at the droid.

Oh, I may be out of line,

But now I'm running out of time,

Keep that mirror in your view,

Keep what's real from coming through.

##Vermin's Tide: All quiet on the Brazilian Front

 New Seoul, Korea

#"Verminlords" disappear, as Bandung Pact faces stressors during withdrawal to Indian Ocean

##Fisheries around Oman disappear, amidst other stressors facing the Pact's new groove.

The Republic Issue | Issued January 1st, 2084 - 12:00 | New Seoul, Korea

NEW SEOUL - Japan to blame? Some say yes for a fishery around New Korea (Oman/Arabian Gulf) that has all but evaporated in a disaster-level hit to Korean food security. The fishery's disappearance has led to increasing tension across the Pact, what with an alliance struggling to consolidate amidst a pyrrhic campaign in Brazil followed closely by a major withdrawal of Pact presence outside of the Indian Ocean Rim. Further, rumors have begun circulating regarding the disappearance of the "Verminlords" as the accessible tunnels across Brazil have all but gone quiet, drawing significant concern from Pact and Borealis officials alike...[cont pg.2]

##Monolith / / A Dream Called Rome

Find Document Here

MODNOTE: Posted early, to facilitate Roman story.

I will believe we'll make it.

I will believe we'll make it.

I will believe 'cause we're not long for this place.

#Playing with Fire

Recent UNSC acquisition of a technology license for Roman Fire has provided certain “unique opportunities” to fill a previously-ignored niche within the STOICS arsenal, providing additional toolkits in the areas of combat geoengineering and tactical urban warfighting. Likewise, the properties of Roman Fire as a novel accelerant offer some interesting upgrade paths for existing munitions, commencing in the three-year development of multiple systems designed to take advantage of the new weapon:

• The Eldspruta m/50 is effectively a modernization of the infantry-portable Eldspruta m/41, designed to be used in the same tactical role as the Type 74. Made of lightweight heat-resistant Borophene-BNNT nanocomposites, the m/50 weighs as little as 13 kilograms (only slightly heavier than the MBT LAW utilized by Joukkotuotanto conscripts), with the bulk of the weapon’s mass dedicated to fuel. Roman fire fuel is pressurized within two canisters, however unlike traditional man-portable flamethrowers, each canister contains a stabilizing metamaterial matrix alongside more traditional pressure release systems. This unique metamaterial honeycomb structure both inhibits ignition when the canister is punctured (ensuring greater user protection) and can be electrically-stimulated to release the contents of individual cells. Eldspruta m/50 operators are therefore able to launch bursts of flame utilizing only a proportion of each canister’s contents, offering greater tactical advantages over traditional flamethrower units (where the entire tank of fuel must be expended). The direct fire range of the pressurized fuel is approximately 80 meters, and the m/50 is capable of expelling the full contents of a 4-Liter canister in as little as 1.5 seconds. In addition to combat engineering teams currently within the Heavily Reinforced Armored Mechanized and Pansarmekaniseradbrigadr, all AFFECTS and INDUCTS graduates are to be trained in the weapon’s properties and usage. A large number of m/50 units will be stockpiled, with the Eldspruta distributed to the Heavy Reinforced and Armored Mechanized Dismounts and WAB/MCU fire teams as an additional component of their infantry heavy weapons inventory. Finally, leveraging the previous experience of Kowloon veterans with infantry flamethrowers, the expanded BFFL will also receive the m/50, with one squad member designated as the primary flamethrower operator. Flyway costs at maximum production quotas are anticipated to be as little $500/unit.

• In a bid to design domestic alternatives to the Type T2 UIGVs, Estonia’s Milrem Robotics has received a modernization request for the THeMIS platform. Initially, the sole source requirement will include an electrification of the platform, converting away from hydrocarbon fuels to an all-electric configuration with the installation of RTSC wheel-hub motors and a conformal nanocomposite armored bank of auto-quenching Li-Air nanowire batteries on the same form factor, while ensuring the improved UGVs are waterproofed up to same deep wading requirements (i.e. up to 300 meters) as existing UNSC armored vehicles. The new E-THEMIS UGV will also feature a 2nd-generation Maille armor scheme (derived from the AZRAEL platform) incorporating improvements from the Sarcophagus implementation, and an improved sub-sentient artificial intelligence on an EMP-hardened hybrid-quantum distributed computing network and SAINTS-compatible post-quantum/QKD-encrypted RF and laser datalinks. In addition to its logistics variants, these new E-THEMIS UGVs will retain compatibility with UNSC LMGs, HMGs, 40 mm AGLs, 30 mm BLLP ETC autocannons, RBS 57 Heavy ATGMs, and Switchblade and Fjärilskniv loitering munitions. Likewise, a new Eldspruta m/50 flamethrower variant will also be developed, with a 200L capacity for Roman Fire accelerant. The average unit cost for the E-THEMIS will approximate $800,000, and the MCUs aim to replace all their existing Type T2s on a one-to-one basis with the E-THEMIS by 2087. Additional E-THEMIS units will also be procured for the Heavy Reinforced Armored Mechanized Brigades during this time period, with each of the nine units receiving 640 x E-THEMIS UGVs, to be operated alongside the Skjaldmær solution by former MCU recruits with combat robotics specializations.

• Similar to the above, DCE has been provided a sole source for an electrified version of X-series of small UGVs designed to replace the aging Type T3 and Ironclad UGVs. The new EX-series UGVs will also include the same propulsion, battery, AI, computing, and communications improvements as the larger E-THEMIS (though with less aggressive waterproofing and shallower wading requirements, up to 25 meters), while also being compact enough to fit within APC cabins (offering an alternative deployment method to logistics vehicles). In addition to existing modular packages (including scouting & surveillance, GEMMA-derived ground-penetrating radar imaging, CBRN incidence response, EOD, brush clearing, IED detection, mine clearing, and medivac), additional modules will be offered for weapons including the .50 BMG Kulspruta-01 HMG, Psg-104 ELR Smoothbore Weapon, 40mm coilgun AGL, Ascalon ATGM, RBS 72 Slaktarfågel MANPADS, Eldspruta m/50 Flamethrower, Torped 68 Dvärgkäxas, and a BAAMs minelaying solution, enabling infantry operators to customize the payload of the lightweight UGV for each mission. Each EX-series is designed with a series of directional shaped charges built into the body of the UGV, enabling the UGV to self-destruct either when crippled or when the appropriate command has been received by a local operator, automatically launching SEPT charges at enemy formations and vehicles as it is destroyed. Unit costs are estimated to average out to $4000 per unit, with MCUs Type T3s and BFFL Ironclads replaced 1:1 with the new EX-series UGVs by 2087. Each of the Heavy Reinforced Armored Mechanized Brigades will also received 1000 x EX-series UGVs during the same time period.

• UNSC experience with roll-on/roll-off solutions will be leveraged for the development of a modular vehicle-mounted flamethrower system that can be rapidly installed aboard all existing UNSC tracked and 8x8 wheeled APCs, effectively converting these armored personnel carriers into an M132 Armored Flamethrower analog. Once seats for personnel are removed, a palletized Roman Fire fuel tankage system will be installed within the vehicle’s cabin with additional ducting. Fuel ducts will then be run up through the hull to the vehicle’s RCWS alongside existing BLLP pipelines, where a new Eldspruta m/66 Heavy Flame Gun will be installed on the same axis as RCWS-mounted machine guns and/or automatic grenade launchers. Given the modular solution, conversion of the vehicle into a “flame tank” can be conducted in as little as five hours, with the installation easily reversible in approximately the same amount of time. The Heavy Reinforced, Armored Mechanized, WABs, and MCUs will receive sufficient palletized Eldspruta m/66 modules for the conversion of 10% of every unit’s wheeled/tracked APC inventory into these heavy flamethrower vehicles by 2087.

• Similar to the way the Krigsguden initiative produced thermobaric weapons of varying strengths and sizes (ranging from infantry solutions all the way up to massive fuel air ordnance), a new series of smart incendiary weapons will be developed. Leveraging multiple miniaturized independently-controlled detonators derived from existing electronically-controlled aimed blast warheads, each munition of the new Drakar family is designed to produce a controlled three-dimensional pattern leading to maximum effective dispersion of the Roman Fire accelerant prior to ignition, providing enhanced effects over existing fuel-gel weapons or napalm. Notable man-portable munitions within the Drakar family include directional incendiary warheads, rounds, and/or rockets compatible with existing RP-90 ASHES, Ascalon ATGM, AT4, Carl-Gustaf, MBT Law, and Torped 68 Dvärgkäxas launchers. In addition to BAAM and CHASM mining solutions, Drakar warheads will be dispersed for vehicular launch aboard guided munitions inclusive of the RBS 57 GLCM, GEAR, and CHEAPO munitions suites (with a new CHEAPO-MAW Roman Fire Analog of the Mark 77 developed). New Roman Fire incendiary rounds will also be developed for launch by all UNSC tube artillery, with similar Drakar shells generated specifically for use aboard by the Gullfaxi family of tanks as a modernized HEI solution. Finally, new kinetic effector modules will be developed that can be rapidly installed by crews aboard existing medium UAVs utilized by the Gullfaxi, Léttfeti, and Blóðughófi IFVs and their vehicle derivatives, providing these vehicles with an additional Drakar drone delivery system.

• As a further derivative of the aforementioned Krigsguden family, a new FAE munition will be developed using Roman Fire accelerant in place of nano-thermite and fluoridated aluminum. Unlike traditional Krigsguden thermobarics which produce and ignite a dust-air cloud, Roman fire droplets will be dispersed by burster charges into a directionally-optimized aerosolized cloud (similar to the ATBIP), which will then be ignited to create a thermobaric explosion. Taking advantage of Roman Fire’s enhanced properties, Roman Fire FAE variants will be developed for all existing Krigsguden munitions, providing an enhanced thermobaric solution for existing Krigsguden operators.

#Desire / / Take Our Hands

^previous

Dragged by the wind,

Taken by the stars,

Carried with the madness and scars.

##I Am The Keeper

"January 1st, 2084 - The Ark, Edge of the Solar System*

Tan Wei Jie had elected to remain awake for the duration of the trip through the solar system, like many of the others who had boarded the Ark as part of the Nusantara party. In their time since departure, they had seen things that people could only imagine and in many ways, Jie felt as though he was walking in the footsteps of the famed Starla. From the Moon, to Mars and then Jupiter, they had seen it all as the Ark lumbered itself towards the outer solar system, making a final pass around Saturn before heading for a final trajectory. As much as the Karakum space agency had tried to keep the project under wraps, it was ultimately hard with modern technology and so the Ark went with much fanfare as it traveled the star-way.

"Is there anything I can get you, sir?" The Android, a member of the crew stood quietly as Tan Wi Jie looked out across the viewing gallery. "Perhaps something to eat? Or a refreshment?"

"You know, I did just eat supper." Jie instinctively massaged his stomach, recalling the ration he had only just eaten. "However, a refreshment...that sounds wonderful."

"Certainly sir, can we interest you in a specialty cocktail?" The Android brought forward a list of refreshments. "Chef has prepared one in particular, supposed to be reminiscent of childhood and nostalgia."

The Nusantaran nodded as he waited a moment while the android went to fetch his drink. In a flash, it had returned with a glass filled to the brim with a purple liquid. "That looks an awful lot like flavor aid."

"Yes sir, although it is supposed to be more reminiscent of kool-aid, the grape flavor." The Android passed Jie the glass who took a long sip as the sound of sloshing ice mixed with his gulp.

"Tasty, good." He smiled as he finished his first sip, looking at the glass in his hand. "I could get used to this."

"We are glad to hear that." The Android gave a small bow of respect before standing tall. "We are proud to be united in seeking a new future, and will endeavour to provide for all possible wants for the duration of the voyage."

Tan Wei Jie smiled gratefully as a flash of light went off behind him.

Tear down hollows,

Take back eternity,

Puppets learn to pull strings,

And cut down user's lead.

##I Am The Secret

 New Seoul, Korea

#"Ark Explosion" registered at edge of solar-system, largest explosion in history

##Secret mission to leave solar system supported by Bandung Pact fails, Japan believed to be secretly involved in explosion.

The Republic Issue | Issued January 1st, 2084 - 12:00 | New Seoul, Korea

SPECIAL EDITION - WRITTEN BY AUTHOR FROM KARAKUM UNION

NEW SEOUL - The Karakum government has confirmed that "The Ark", a mission to safeguard the free-world has been destroyed in a catastrophic explosion which officially has been classified as a "mission critical failure" of the reactor system. The explosion which according to scientists reviewing the disaster, was approximately twice as large as the explosion which rocked Switzerland, and allegedly was visible even to the naked eye. Thousands of human and animal embryos, alongside a small group of living humans and the android crew have been lost in the explosion, one of the most devastating civilian disasters in recent memory. Similarly, confidence in Karakum reactors has plummeted worldwide, although Karakum's department responsible for the development has promised that "there was unforeseen interference" which has raised its own set of conspiracies.

Most notable, is the suggestion now running rampant across the Pact that the Empire of Japan was somehow involved in the destruction. Japan which is known to have a plethora of various "super-weapons" including a number of such weapons in space, was pegged as a likely assailant in what Korean and Nusantarans are calling "an attack on the Pact". Japanese officials have however denied these allegations, providing enough proof that has seen the UASR Presidium calling for a much more strenuous investigation. This however has been a polarizing stance, with some in the Bandung Pact beginning to suggest that the "red telephone" has gone too far, and that the UASR is now protecting Japan even when it is unwarranted. Ultimately however, with the destruction of "Ark I", the Karakum Union has been forced to handle much of the crisis on its own, going so far as to begin recovery and salvage operations in an effort to preserve and collect lost lives out of respect to the deceased...[cont pg.4]

So climb up, and come clean,

Move back the smoke screen,

It's all here, it's all you,

Get clear on the darker view.

##I Am The Answer

January 3rd, 2084

Mount Yamantau, Karakum

The eight legged step of a creature deep within Mount Yamantau echoed across the halls and metal flooring of the Based Department. It was of course, entirely unnecessary that he, or perhaps it, was physically walking through Yamantau, what with the universal connection that had been established across the hundreds of millions of nodes. Mainly, it, just enjoyed the exercise of movement, exhilarating as his legs carried him and each micromovement reverberated as sensation through the brain.

There was of course another reason for his stroll today, for why he would pass by the millions of workers who diligently toiled united as one. He was going to see the global node, something that could receive information but not application for security reasons - and the united mind of all things. And as he walked deeper into Mount Yamantau, passing by the factories producing bombs labeled with at least to him, a familiar symbol even if it had never been known in this world, he could feel his heart...or the closest approximation of it begin to race.

Each room he passed was a testament to his achievements, vast warehouses filled with esoteric European technologies, the strongest weapons a Pact could produce, the original Paris-07, even several pieces of the original Swiss Large Hadron Collider. There was storehouses of radioactive material, uranium, plutonium, even cobalt, and then of course there was the the peak of his work, of the work of the whole. A room filled only with a digital map of the world, painted in all black, save for the billions of dot-lights which lit up the room. The Karakum fully ablaze in lights, what once was Danubia ablaze in part. And across the Pact, countless millions more; from the UASR whose Republic of Kaabu was lit ablaze, to the Korean and Indian Republics each more millions. And yet this room passed like all the rest, as he approached the final room of Mount Yamantau, and the deepest depth it was the largest room in the entire facility. Two similarly eight-legged guards, a product of his merging with the Everlasting program stood at attention, needing no verbal communication as they let him pass as the doors opened.

If there was a smell, it wasn't something that the Global Node had programed to be registered by the senses, but would have likely been strong based on the wind in the large circular room, a pool of liquid at the bottom of the spherical space. His eyes however cared not for what was below, but rather, what was suspended in the room above - looking up as he traced the myriad of black tentacles which wormed around the room on a constant basis, soon he reached the stem which flowered in a cosmic mixture of red. This was the most important of his collaborations with the Based Department, the fleshy-dunes each larger than a car, as nodules and streaks of electricity appeared and disappeared across the brain. This was the Global Node, the center of unity.

"Hello, You." The eight-legged entity looked up, meeting the Brain in his internal processing.

"Hello, Me." What is and once was Abelard spoke no verbal words and yet emitted radio-waves of communication to the eight-legged and spider-like creature before it.

"I've come with a report." The Spider moved to internal communication.

"You are aware, that I am aware." The Brain made a statement, not a question as it felt the very world register in its processing units. "Or did you come to tell me about the Bogdanoffs?"

"No, nothing of the sort." The Spider sent an internal smile to the Brain as it remained ever still in the presence of the Global Node. "But can't I come celebrate with myself? We've achieved quite a lot, you know."

"I know." The Brain registered back the smile, knowing it was loved. "Would you like me to suggest, that we continue with the plan? or intimate that you had assumed plan 17 was over?"

The two shared a laugh that was registered by hundreds of millions more, as the Spider turned to go. "Do you think they'll hear us?"

"It was close enough to Interstellar space." The Brain made another statement. "But you should know that, you should also know that only we, could identify that type of explosion."

"I know." The Spider smiled again. "I was just testing you."

The Brain sent a nod that was registered by the Spider's processing unit. "You test yourself, then, Abelard."

The communications of the Brain faded into the hundreds of millions of other processing units across the world, as the Spider walked out of the Global Node, returning once more to the united communication of his work.

Bring me your soul, bring me your hate,

In my name you will create,

Bring me your fear, bring me your pain,

You will destroy in my name.

##I Am The End

Unknown - 2084

 Three arks drifting silently, united.

 Lost in the void, with their searching radars,

 Built by a billion hands, then divided.

 An explosion and screaming, from the stars.

 An everlasting soul, now wandering,

 Another old and of the underworld.

 With ceaseless effort, never-ending, 

 Wake the arks, with banner unfurled.

 Travelers from afar, bringing their love

 Born under a differing moon and sun,

 They'll come in time, from above.

 Coming to cut down an aberration.

 Coming as worshippers of Unity.

 They come to save those worthy.

I am dark matter,

Your road to ruin,

I am dark matter,

I'm your undoing.

#Rise, Witch / / Awaken Now

^previous

Sing for me, let me feel released,

Let me learn from my mistakes,

Oh, sing for me, let me feel relieved,

Cos I need to believe I'm alive.

##Ashes, Flame, and the Vessel of Life

December 25th, 2083 - Location Unknown

There was an ethereal darkness to the stone walls as the moonlight cast its rays through the singular barred window far above in the rafters of the room. A damp wetness dripped from the window as wind howled, tracing lines of water across the walls and pooling at the floor in piles of mildew. "Nobody seems to realize the kind of trouble you all are in."

Ry'la gave a sigh as she spoke, her voice echoing off the stones as she sat on a small wooden bench beside a wall of metal bars. "Vampires, mutants, undead...I could carry on."

"The world...this world...really isn't ready to see just how bad things are...how many cracks...how much chaos is slipping in." Ry'la flicked a small droplet of water off her hand, as she twirled a wand in the other. "And except for a few...they certainly aren't taking things seriously."

There was a small stirring of blankets on the other side of the bars, a low groan as something began to move. "Oh, wonderful...your awake."

She shifted herself, standing up and dusting off the damp that had covered her clothing. Outside, she could hear the wolves howling as the moon reached its zenith.

"Well anyway, yes, as I was saying...things are going to get much worse before they get better." Ry'la stood up and walked closer to the bars. "But that's why I am so glad that they have found...you."

The witch's eyes sparkled a brilliant blue as she looked down towards the floor.

"We are going to do great things together, you and I." Ry'la smiled, taking a green stone out of her pocket. "Just you wait and see."

I'm trying hard to remember what it is,

I'm trying hard to recall if I care at all,

It's like an old place I used to know,

That I had to leave,

I watch it crumble, I watch it fall.

##On Your Mark: The Coming Custodianship of Danubia

##Marriage signals beginning of new Japan-Danubia relationship, as Aesir heralds new King

BY: Takei Madoka (format credit to /u/Penelope_)

Dated: January 1st, 2084

The wedding between Princess Ichika Fushimi and King Maximilian von Habsburg has ended in a resounding flurry of celebration across the former Alfheimr successor state with applause and praise from the people of both Japan and Danubia at the match between two loving individuals. However, in a move that surprised some, the wedding also involved the formal coronation of King Maximilian von Habsburg by Her Imperial Highness the Aesir Kyoko - when she formally declared and recognized the Habsburg Prince as King of Europa amidst a stark political deadlock and crisis that had been occurring despite the negotiated agreements with Japan. The wedding which featured guests from across the GIGAS network, including the "Slayer", Princess-Mother Aiko of Fushimi, and others from both the UNSC, IJN, and other important political organizations has been heralded as the most important event in recent Danubian history.

Coinciding with the wedding has also been the deployment of much beloved Imperial assets from across the Empire, involved in security and the future integration of Danubia into Empire. This includes yet another million auxiliary soldiers from across the Japanese Imperial Network, including Japanese, Argentine, and Slayer forces alongside a large deployment of the Imperial Domestic Stability Task Force assigned to handle the potential of protests and other mess relating the wedding by radicals and ultra-nationalists within Europa. As part of the ceremony, the Danubian military including its vast army and air force participated in a "Oathbinding Ceremony" in which they collectively swore loyalty to His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Japan, and swore to serve the interests of the collective Empire under the guidance of His Royal Highness the King of Europa Maximilian von Habsburg.

As part of the ceremony, an honor guard of nearly 500,000 professional Danubian soldiers was instated, uplifting them to Imperial Service as part of an ever expanding Imperial Space Corps with final destinations for an Imperial Base on Europa (Moon). The instatement has been done with significant honors, with His Imperial Majesty directly appearing for a brief one-day appearance as part of the ceremony, before returning to Belgium as part of a broader continental visit of Europe. The integration of Danubia is expected to be swift, as the last non-GIGAS aligned state in Europe comes under direct Imperial Custodianship in a simlar relationship that Danubia once held with the Alfheimr.

I'm taking all of the passion that I had,

I'm trying to hold it in my hands but I let it fall,

And in the end it becomes my own destroyer,

I turn it round and I'm lost again.

##Whiplash, A Love Story in Vienna

His face was bruised, blood dripping from a small scratch on his cheek, he clutched his arms to hide the scars, all the while her voice raised in anger.

"By what right, did you have going to Rome?" Princess Ichika gave a cold yell, as Prince Maximilian Wenceslaus von Habsburg-Lohengrin kneeled before her. "By what right?!"

He made no effort to respond, earning another slap across the face.

"Did Japan give you the order?" Each word was like poison as the Princess spoke, as if acid was being thrown onto the Habsburg's face. "To convene...scheme...behind the back of Empire?"

"I did as the Kings of Danubia always have! We act behind the scenes on behalf of our liege lords!" Max reaffirmed his earlier statement, recoiling only as he saw red in the eyes of the Princess and a boot to his face, his whole body thrust to the ground as the tip of her high-heel held his head down. "Princess, if you would look you would see my actions have been perfectly correct!"

She dug her heel in harder, widening the scratch and getting squirms of pain from the Prince of Danubia. "We're opening the books now. Enough...of all this."

"Come the second quarter, Europa's books are to be opened in entirety, we're shipping in an Auditor." Princess Ichika lifted her heel, giving a quick strike to the Prince's stomach as she did so. "You are King now, so act like it and get up."

"GET UP!" The Princess yelled, her tone like venom as King Maximilian struggled to his feet. "The doctor's will fix you up, go see them."

She walked away before he could say another word.

I'm on fire now, and I'm burned out,

Trying hard to remember, what it is,

Taking hold of my passions.

##For the Republic, Part Six: Last Alfr Standing

"Danubia's gone." Kyrr looked in disgust at the paper which was now strewn out on the coffee table, the headline a gross tabloid mischaracterization of the Remnant States. "The O-5 will have fun dealing with the devil, won't last long I imagine."

There was smoke in the office, from the plethora of cigarettes and cigars that had been consumed over the past twelve hours which combined with the whiskey, had made for a grueling night.

"If...and that's a big if, Danubia is truly gone..." Elizabeth Underwood, the new President of the Republic gave a small grimace as she thought of the consequences in her mind.

"Yes, it means we're next." Kyrr didn't need to volunteer elaboration as the President paced around the oval office. The Elf mused at the number of Presidents that had done similar, feeling trapped and pacing in the White House as a Devil from the Ring of Fire tightened the noose, a noose that once had the glorious Alfheim as executioner.

"What about our contacts? Surely you have some friends left in either Wewelsburg or Vienna." Underwood sat down, exasperated and only willing to show it after downing a half dozen glasses of whiskey. "Don't tell me Armstrong was dealing with two arms tied behind his back."

Kyrr's grimace was enough to get a stressed out "Jesus Christ" from the President, as she shot back in her chair looking to the sky. "If rumors are true, there are more fleets moving into the Atlantic...Japanese of course."

"I've not even been President for a year and the house is already on fire." Underwood was clearly frustrated as she leaned forward, looking directly at Kyrr.

"Well...there is one more thing you need to see, as President." Kyrr motioned his hand and the automated blinds on the windows closed, sending the room into darkness save for a lamp on the desk.

"The hell is that?" Underwood moved the chair away from Kyrr, out of concern and paranoia.

"Just something you need to see." Kyrr took a small USB titled "By Your Side" from his pocket, handing it to Underwood. "Come find me, when you've watched it."

I'm worried, I worry all the time,

I'm worried I"m burning inside,

I'm worried, I worry all the time,

With my head and my heart, I'm on fire.

vibe

Zalmoxis stared at the map in front of him. The mockup of the Malachite Lexicon hung there, each of the cracks marked red upon its otherwise unmarked map of the world. He ran his fingers over them, each one a painful reminder of the journey still to come. And yet his fingers stopped over a new mark, this one more important than the rest. His mind still burned from the divination, the eyes which he saw still piercing their way into every dark corner and shadow. His fingers held there for a moment longer, understanding the truth of what was to come next. Tearing his hand away, he left the room and walked into the darkness of the Palace. If the Garden was to bring forth the Shield of the World, it would need to be far more prepared than it currently was.

Fire burned through the small village.

The screams of those trapped in buildings echoed throughout the night, the crackling of the fire joining in and creating a haunting cacophony. Gunshots rang out all through the town, as words of Polish, Russian, Pontic, and Proto-Indo-European mixed to create an unholy symphony of language. Above all this rose a single voice, their laughter more fraught than the screams of the damned which surrounded them.

Pleistoros waded through the streets covered in blood, Warriors filing around him as Polish insurgents attempted to fight back. More screams could be heard as a Yemo crashed through a house, tearing apart its inhabitants like papier-mâché. Gunfire rang out from a small house from across the street, the small arms firing bouncing ineffectively off the God. He smiled, his blood red eyes lighting up as he burst through the door. Three men stared at him, guns drawn. In an instant, only one man remained. Falling to his knees, the man begged, pleaded, asked for his life, cried out that he had a family. Pleistoros took his head all the same.

For all he could see were fields of blood, and men in gold suits of armour falling to the glory of Eden.

Dr. Seh₂kyag worked through the night. Elements around the world had conspired to force him to spend endless hours at the Institute, unable to leave, lest his work come undone. The mass of vines that sat in front of him, covered in mushrooms and flowers, was a testament to this. No matter how hard he had worked on this one, it was yet another failure.

He shook his head, casting aside the vials of blood and cursing throughout the empty rooms and halls. His team continued to get closer and closer to the completion of the organic intelligence, and yet, the final steps seemed to allude them. Staring at the vines once more, he eyed them, as if silently willing them to move. When no movement was forthcoming, he slumped his shoulders, grabbing his coat as to head home for a couple hours sleep at best. He went about turning the lights off, and checking all the doors to ensure they were locked. Having done so, he than turned to his exit, and just as he was about to shut it and leave for the night, he heard glass shatter on the floor.

Grabbing the small pistol he kept concealed in his jacket, he turned the lights back on and approached the room. His shouts went unheeded, and so as he turned the corner, he expected the worst. Instead, he saw something which would upheave the world. The vine's arms, or at least, a mass which made an appendage had moved and knocked the vials of blood over. That arm now searched the table, small tendrils tentatively protruding from the main body to find more sustenance. Seh₂kyag immediately dropped the gun, yelling at the top of his lungs in triumph. Taking out his phone, he immediately called his team. As the arm continued to move in small, jagged motions, Seh₂kyag continued yelling.

He had created life.

Dyēus-suHnús held the knife tentatively. It was late, only a couple hours before his 10th birthday. He could not sleep though. Energy coursed through his body as he paced around his room. The knife felt heavy in his hands as he tossed it around, feeling its weight shift between movements. His uncle had promised to teach him combat when he had turned 10, and yet, Dyēus-suHnús felt his own impatience getting the better of him. He silently exited his room and began to walk the halls of the Palace. Even at this time of night, the Palace was alive with activity, and so he moved between the shadows as best he could, using his still small frame to keep hidden.

Eventually, he reached his target, the training yards outside Palace. Here, he could see dozens of Warriors fighting, their moves in close combat eloquent and deadly as they slashed at each other with real blades. Every hit felt electrifying to the young boy, as he stared in awe at the moves these men and women undertook. Clutching the knife as if his life depended on it, he moved as close as he dared to the yards, and there he would stay for hours, his tired body sustained on the energy of the moment.

And though no one noticed him, had they turned to his hiding spot, a copper glow would be visible, bathing the area in its light.

The Earth Mother and Iohannis sat silent. They had scarcely talked since their last meeting with the Witch, each of them too drained to endure a confrontation. Although they now stood on the same page, politics and religion merged into one goal, their lives and their relationship had been immeasurably changed.

The God-King looked up from the book he was paying little attention to, and took a second to take in the Earth Mother. Her hair had returned to its normal jet black, her face and body no longer gaunt and skeletal. His gaze turned from her to the small girl sitting a ways away in a deck chair, relaxing in the sun as she read an old book, a present for her 10th birthday. H₂éwsōs seemed happy as she flipped through the pages.

6 months had been the deal between God and the Witch. 6 months the girl would remain by the witch's side, learning all there was to learn about her arts, and 6 months she would remain here, in the Garden, learning all there was regarding her role as the Heir to the Earth. The moment their daughter had returned, her Mother had regained her youth, and the Garden its sunlight.

Iohannis thought back to ages past, near-on 60 years ago. He thought of all the moments that had led up to this one, and the ones still to come. How far they had come, he thought, and how far there was still left to go. Turning back to the Earth Mother, he hesitated for a second, before holding his hand out on the coffee table which separated them. A second passed, and then another, and just before he pulled back, the Earth Mother's hand joined his. Not in any real embrace, but in a moment, a touch.

They would persevere. The Garden would persevere.

Chernobyl was far different than he had been led to believe throughout his life. Although they stood at the border of the territory, he could still see the vast difference between what came before them, and what lay ahead. As he stared into the distance, he could hear the beating of drums, signaling, at least from what he had been told, the arrival of those they had come to meet.

As the drums began to sound, the Dryads of the H₁ln̥gʷʰ-ro Srew tribe readied their weapons. He knew that in addition to the weapons they held in front of them, their protective giant was somewhere hidden in the trees, ready to pounce should things go sideways. The drumming continued, and as it did, the source began to appear from the trees. Dozens of people, all of them sporting a variety of mutations, walked out into the light to face the Dryad clan. There were men with split jaws, women with third eyes, people with more appendages than seemed possible. But most awe-inspiring was the individual who was brought in like an old noble, sitting on his throne as it was carried.

This individual sat on a brutal throne made of twisted steel and rotting metal. Their actual image was impressive. The individual appeared as a statue, as concrete slabs held all around them, and yet, they moved as though unimpeded by the layers of concrete they were entombed within. Their throne was set down, and the individual spoke in a deep, disturbed voice.

"Greetings Dryads. I am the Radiation Emperor, the sovereign of this land. What brings you to this forsaken region of the Garden?"

The Dryads shifted uncomfortably as their leader, Elder Kwon-H₃dn̥t, stepped forward. Her voice matched the Emperor's in its intensity.

"Greetings Emperor, I am Elder Kwon-H₃dn̥t of the H₁ln̥gʷʰ-ro Srew tribe. We are here today to speak on the terms of an alliance. The Garden is becoming a hazardous place for our kind, and the world is becoming a threat to the Garden. It is only natural that we align with each other, to ensure our survival in the coming years."

The words floated through the air, their weight apparent to all around. The Radiation Emperor tilted his concrete head, as if making his consideration abundantly clear.

"The offer intrigues me Elder. And yet, I find it lacking. From my knowledge you are not even the most significant Dryad tribe, let alone perversion, and yet you believe yourself equal to myself? I have received missives from the Dryad Gʰel-Gʰreh, the Green-Grower, who I am certain would see my as an enemy if I aligned my realm with you. Both the Blood-Soaked One of Eden, and Josef of Kyiv have approached my realm as well. What do you bring that puts you above them so absolutely that you would risk your lives coming here?"

His threat would cause most pause, and yet, the Elder fired back.

"You are not incorrect in your assessment. Our size and influence is less than all of those. However, we have something far more important than anything they can provide. Enoch, could you please step forward!"

He did so, covered in splendid jewellery as befitting his position as the true prophet, as the Elder continued.

"You may recognise the name Emperor. This is the True Prophet, the one destined to tear down the foundations the False Prophet Amir has built and bring about a golden age in the Garden. We may not have influence or size, but we are the tribe the Earth Mother has seen fit to bring about judgement on those who distort her faith."

The concreted man stared at him, and although his eyes were impossible to see, Enoch could feel them burning into his soul.

"And how can I trust that this is actually the true prophet, and not just some kid you picked up off the side of the road?"

The Elder smiled, as if anticipating the challenge. She whistled, and after a second the tribe's Yemo appeared, bringing with it gasps and yelps of surprise from the assembly Adherents. She turned to Enoch and nodded.

"Could you please showcase your powers to the Emperor, I am sure he will find them very convincing."

Enoch gave a slight nod and walked forward. As he did, he raised his hand and flexed his fingers. His eyes began to distort in colour, turning a brilliant silver, and as his fingers curled more, movement began on the Yemo. It was slow at first, but soon enough the Vines began to curl and twist at his will, slithering up his arm and body as if they were snakes. Enoch danced with them, moving them around to give him a raised platform before having them drop him to the ground.

The Elder turned back to the Emperor, a grin encompassing her face.

"Only those emboldened with the Earth Mother's glory are capable of such feats, do you not believe?"

It was impossible to tell what exactly the Radition Emperor was feeling, his entire body obscured by his concrete sacrophagus. He waited for what felt like an eternity before responding.

"I will admit, it is far more than I expected. Perhaps he is truly who you say, though I would need more proof to be certain."

Before the Elder could respond, he held out his hand.

"Luckily for us both, I have brought someone along to the meeting who specialises in such godly affairs."

Silence overtook the meeting as a single individual made their way forward. They were cloaked, their face hidden from all, but even from where Enoch was standing he could see the person was different. They seemed to radiate an energy even he did not possess.

"It was years ago when i first made contact with this individual. They came to me in the night, looking to poke and prod for every piece of information they could. They succeeded, but in doing so they began to realise the faux life which they had attached themselves to. Slowly, but surely, they have come to understand that they true perversion is that which sits in the Palace, deep within the Garden's heart."

The individual stopped in the middle of the two groups, facing the Dryads. Their hands went to their cloak as the Radiation Emperor continued to speak.

"You may indeed have the true prophet my dear Kwon-H₃dn̥t, but I have something more. My ally, my benefactor, he who will bring about the true Garden, is the Forgotten God... Burebistan!"

As the God now revealed his face, a stunned silence broke over the meeting. Members from both sides held their mouths, unable to believe what lay in front of them. And as they did, Burebistan's grey eyes, the stormclouds they were, stared a hole through Enoch.

#♚

^mood

#FOKUS

INRIKES UTRIKES POLITIK EKONOMI KULTUR KRÖNIKA

KRÖNIKA PUBLISHED 2083-11-11

VI BLIR DEL AV DEN KROPPEN GENOM DOPET

Remembrance Day Ceremonies Marked By Mass Migration in the Kingdom of Benelux

TEXT: ANTON SÄLL

ANTWERP - Millions of Belgian and Dutch citizens have gathered on the shores of Benelux in advance of this year’s Remembrance Day service, as part of a massive internal migration following a public declaration by King Gabriel I that the Memorial will (uniquely) pay special tribute to the 53rd Anniversary of the Kingdom’s Downfall. With the Kingdom just shy of its third year of UNSC special administration following the historic Handover agreement, the Beneluxian King has announced that the upcoming Remembrance Day event will represent “a time of redemption”, personally appealing for blanket participation from the community of “Dead Beneluxians” (i.e. those left behind and subjected to the ‘mercies’ of Alfheimr occupation) in a special ceremony to be conducted by Archbishop Hans Jönsson. In addition to the usual UNSC delegates, a special invitation has been extended from the Beneluxian Throne to Emperor Hisahito as Guest of Honour, in recognition for Japan’s role in the reinstatement of the Kingdom to its Exile community. There have also been unconfirmed rumors that Albert II of Belgium, currently in Hospice care, has been cleared by private doctors in order to attend the primary observances held on the Beaches of Sint Anneke...

Now had the great Proclaimer with a voice
More awful then the sound of Trumpet, cried
Repentance, and Heavens Kingdom nigh at hand
To all Baptiz'd: to his great Baptism flock'd
With aw the Regions round, and with them came
From Nazareth the Son of Joseph deem'd
To the flood Jordan, came as then obscure,
Unmarkt, unknown;

The masses came in their thousands, their hundreds of thousands, their millions. Plunging headlong into the freezing waters, the host of humanity would disappear beneath the churning surface of the waves. Time held no meaning during this watery burial, with mere moments spent underwater stretching to infinity; then, finally! They’d be lifted out of the bitter chill of the North Sea, coughing, sputtering, and gasping, their newly-opened eyes greeted by the sign of the Cross.

The sweet sound of Hymns echoed across the waves, choirs of choristers singing “Hallelujahs” as the Baptism of Benelux continued. Thousands of neo-Lutheran priests stood waist-deep within the waters, issuing blessings en masse before directing the newly-Baptized towards roaring fires dotting the beaches. Having passed through the valley of death, the once-Deceased would find themselves attended by former Exiles, wrapping their shivering bodies in white robes and offering them hot drinks to stave off the cold. The youth of the Sons of Thunder would just as swiftly usher the Reborn away from the shoreline and towards steaming saunas parked nearby, making way for the next round of adherents to take the plunge.

From his vantage point adjacent to the cenotaph that marked the place where his father had fallen on the field of battle, King Gabriel I of Benelux observed the symbolic dance of death and rebirth repeated tirelessly through the cold, crimson lenses of his skull helm. The monument was a simple concrete construction cast by order of the Æsir during the state funeral of the late Belgian monarch, and now served as a grim reminder of the long shadow cast by the personification of the Great Enemy. Once purified by the icy brine of the salt Sea, the horde of baptized Beneluxians would stream past this very cenotaph, singing Hymns of praise. Was it hope that Gabriel saw in their smiling, blue-lipped, red-flushed faces, optimism glistening in their eyes? His subjects had received this mild form of self-flagellation with more warmth than he had anticipated, so many seeking penitence for perceived sins they had committed in the service to the Night King. Gabriel wondered silently if this was perhaps a side effect of the myriad sightings of the rumored “Saint”; allegations of miracles had intensified throughout the Kingdom’s three Provinces since his coronation and the birth of his son.

His son. Gabriel glanced down at the tiny form cradled within his armored embrace, the young boy sleeping blissfully unaware beneath a swathe of thick woolen blankets. Michel was fast approaching his third birthday, and had grown significantly more attentive in recent months. The toddler had done his best to remain awake during the opening ceremonies, but had eventually succumbed, slumbering quietly amidst the ensuing chaos on the beaches. “Poor thing,” Isabella of the Danish Realms cooed, brushing away a single blond curl on the child’s forehead with a slender finger. “He really was no match for one of the Archbishop’s sermons.”

Gabriel turned to his Queen Consort, his voice rumbling through his helm’s speaker grille. “Dear wife, I am more than willing to forgive the lad for falling asleep during a lecture by Jönsson on the Divine nature of Forgiveness,” the Lord Defender said, the amusement in his voice unmistakable.

Isabella pouted, placing her hands on her slender hips. “Beloved, you know as well as I do that he’s just a little boy! He shouldn’t even be out in this sort of weather!”

“I had thought it would be best for him to see his great-grandfather once more,” the King of Benelux murmured, his voice adopting a more solemn note.

The Queen Consort and Princess of the Danish Realms did not reply, instead wrapping her arms around the King’s bone-white Sarcophagus armor. Gabriel placed a gauntleted hand tenderly on his wife’s shoulder, continuing to cradle the sleeping Prince in his opposite arm. They would remain like that for some time, watching wordlessly as the Dead ritually threw themselves into the churning waters, emerging from the waves anew.

“Really brings you back, doesn’t it, Brother?”

From his vantage point high atop the ridgeline, King Christian Valdemar slowly turned away from the milling Beneluxians, flashing a quizzical glance at his companion. “I… really had thought you’d forgotten.”

Hisahito smiled, leaning back into his ermine-draped dais. “Hardly,” the Emperor of Japan replied. “As the good Archbishop said, there was surely rejoicing in Heaven during my own Baptism. And since that fateful day, look how far we’ve come, you and I.”

The King of Denmark nodded. “Where once were boys,” Christian said, carefully, “now sit a King and an Emperor.”

“Not bad, if I do say so myself,” the Emperor of Japan chuckled. “But look there,” Hisahito pointed, gesturing towards the Beneluxian royal family. Christian’s gaze followed, and the King of Denmark noted the presence of additional Royal Aides and an impossibly frail, skeletal figure on a wheelchair at the base of the Cenotaph. “At long last does the King of the Dead make himself known,” the Emperor declared.

“Albert II,” Christian muttered under his breath, his eyes widening as he recognized the long-abdicated Belgian monarch, clearly a pale shadow of his former self. “Come to pay his respects to his late son, no doubt,” Hisahito continued, glancing at the concrete cenotaph. “That man truly was too stubborn to die while his people remained in exile.” The Emperor nodded, a strange smile playing on his lips. “And the Midnight Sun, in its absolute Magnanimity, could not simply ignore the wishes of such a frail reminder of my dearest Grandfather’s generation. So it was only fitting that I, in the immense power and wealth that has been imparted unto me by Heaven, return the Kingdom to his line.” He paused, the smile never leaving his face. “I’m sure it’s what the Emperor-Emeritus would have wanted.”

Christian watched as Gabriel’s armored form knelt, gently placing the sleeping form of Prince Michel in the arms of his great grandfather. The former Belgian King tenderly cradled the child in cadaverous arms, placing a kiss gently on his forehead. “This isn’t simply a visit to the grave of the late King Philippe,” the Danish monarch said as his sister retrieved the child from the old man’s embrace. “It looks more like they’re saying their goodbyes.”

“Well, well,” Hisahito murmured, leaning forwards in his seat. “This is an interesting surprise.” The pair continued to observe as the King of Benelux lifted his grandfather out of the wheelchair, the patriarch of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha now carried in the arms of his Sarcophagus armor towards the beach.

“It would appear the old man wishes to be baptized.”

Gabriel was waist-deep in the North Sea now, his Sarcophagus armor’s HUD flashing the ambient temperature of the surrounding water. “You’re absolutely certain that you want to do this, Grandfather?” he asked, uncertainty coloring his voice. In spite of himself, the King of Benelux and Supreme Commandant of the Cadaver Corps felt very much like that young boy who’d once stood by the Dronningens Kanal in distant Syddanmark.

The old man gasped as the icy waves lapped against his legs. “You… you are a blessing to me,” the former King managed between bated breaths. “You have returned our people to their Homeland, and have avenged us with the Traitor’s blood. You have more than fulfilled your Oath, and you have accomplished all of this within my lifetime.”

“And your child is a blessing to me,” the King of the Dead continued. “When I am gone, your line must endure. This Land, once lost, will be his Birthright: You will teach him to lead our people into the future, and you will defend him against whatever may threaten his future Kingship.” Albert II gripped Gabriel’s armored forearm with one skeletal hand. “You will ensure this, even though it bring your Death.”

Once again, Gabriel looked the living skeleton in the eyes. “I will, Grandfather,” he vowed.

A smile splayed itself across Albert’s lips. “Then I am prepared to finally meet my Maker and your father in Paradise, my King.”

The King of Benelux nodded, then gently lowered the old man into the Sea. After raising the prone form of his Grandfather from the waves, Gabriel remained there for a time, his armored form shaking as tremors racked his body.

For in the midst of it all, Gabriel wept.

But him the Baptist soon
Descri'd, divinely warn'd, and witness bore
As to his worthier, and would have resign'd
To him his Heavenly Office, nor was long
His witness unconfirm'd; on him baptiz'd
Heaven open'd, and in likeness of a Dove
The Spirit descended, while the Fathers voice
From Heav'n pronounc'd him his beloved Son.

~ John Milton, Paradise Regained

#MINISTRY OF DEFENSE

With the conclusion of Recuperatio, the Roman Armed Forces have broadly recovered the losses suffered in the Byzantine losses, and the size of the Armed forces has expanded significantly to 3mm active duty personnel. While we have engaged in extensive procurement programs, the completion of the R&D cycle of various UNSC technologies means that it is time to procure them. This procurement cycle will primarily be focused on strengthening Roman Marines, who were crucial in Operation Megalith and demonstrated the critical nature of amphibious operations to Roman offensive operations. The size of the Marines, as part of the broader expansion of the Armed Forces will expand from 300,000 personnel to 600,000. This procurement cycle aims to equip the most veteran of our marine units, the Venelia, Delphina, and Nelphina marines with cutting edge equipment, among additional air and transport assets. To fund the procurement and relevant infrastrucuture, given the significant expenditure on the Limes, the SRR will be issuing bonds to UNSC institutional investors at favorable market rates.

Procurement Table

Procurement, if supported by the broader UNSC industrial base, will take 3 years. In addition to procurement, the SRR will be investing substantially in the establish of a domestic supply chain for ONC liquid propellants. The timeline for developing the ONC propellant industrial base will mirror that of procurement, should the UNSC support the project.

#MINISTRY OF FINANCE

##Prospectus for the Sale of $200 Billion of Second Roman Republic Bonds

Issuer: Second Roman Republic

Amount: $200 Billion

Interest Rate: 1.500% on Principal

Maturity Date: 20 Years from Date of Issuance

Lead Book-Runner: Barclays

Co-Managers: Nordea, HSBC

1. Executive Summary

The Second Roman Republic is issuing $200 billion in sovereign bonds, with a fixed interest rate of 1.500% on the principal, and a 20-year maturity. This issuance aims to strengthen the Republic’s defense capabilities and modernize critical infrastructure.

2. Purpose of the Bond Issue

The proceeds from this bond issuance will be allocated towards:

Defense and Security Enhancements: Upgrading the Republic's military capabilities, including procurement of advanced technology, and ensuring the Republic’s security in a volatile regional environment.

Infrastructure Projects: Modernizing transportation networks, energy grids, and communication systems to support the Republic’s economic growth and strategic interests.

3. Terms and Conditions

Coupon Rate: 1.500% per annum

Payment Frequency: Semi-annual interest payments

Principal Repayment: Full repayment at maturity (20 years from issuance)

Minimum Denominations: $1,000 and integral multiples thereof

Issue Price: 100% of principal amount

Call Right: The Second Roman Republic reserves the right to redeem the bonds, in whole or in part, at any time after 5 years from the issue date, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The Issuer will provide bondholders with a minimum of 30 days notice prior to exercising the call option.

Governing Law: Law of the Second Roman Republic

4. Credit Rating

The Second Roman Republic is currently rated AA by Fitch. This rating reflects the Republic's commitment to fiscal discipline, strategic investments, and stable governance.

5. Economic and Financial Overview of the Second Roman Republic

The Second Roman Republic has a robust economy characterized by diversification and growth across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, technology, tourism and defense. Fiscal policy is underpinned by prudent management, with a focus on maintaining a sustainable debt-to-GDP ratio while driving strategic economic initiatives.

6. Risks and Considerations

Political and Geopolitical Risk: The Republic is situated in a region with significant geopolitical challenges, which could impact economic stability.

Currency Risk: As the bonds are issued in Soldius (SOL), investors may be exposed to currency risk.

Market Risk: Interest rate fluctuations may affect the bond's market value over time.

Credit Risk: While the Republic enjoys a strong credit rating, adverse developments could impact its ability to meet debt obligations.

7. Use of Proceeds

The proceeds from the bond issuance will be allocated as follows:

50% - Defense and Security Enhancements

50% - Infrastructure Projects

8. Subscription and Allotment

The bonds will be offered primarily to institutional investors within the UNSC Confederation. Allocation will be determined by Barclays, in collaboration with Nordea, based on demand and investor profiles.

9. Listing and Trading

These bonds will be listed on Roman Stock Exchange (RSE), providing a platform for secondary market trading.

10. Taxation

Interest payments on the bonds may be subject to withholding tax, depending on the jurisdiction of the bondholder. Investors should consult their tax advisors regarding the tax implications of their investment.

11. Legal Considerations

The issuance and sale of these bonds are subject to compliance with the laws of the Second Roman Republic and applicable international regulations.

12. Contacts

For more information, please contact:

Barclays Investment Bank

1 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf,

London, E14 5HP,

UNSC

Nordea Markets

Satamaradankatu 5

Helsinki UNSC-00020

Second Roman Republic Ministry of Finance

Mitropoleos 9,

Thessalonica 546 25, SRR

Disclaimer: This prospectus is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. The offer is made solely by means of the official offering circular, which includes more detailed information, including risk factors and financial statements.

Karakum is deeply reliant on the access to the Indian Ocean. While the infrastructure has been developed through a large series of maglevs connecting Karakum to Karachi and Dehli, we are still willing to improve our positions there.

The Pakistani Aegis

Currently, the railroad is protected by the heavy railgun encampments courtesy of Nusantara. However, we are looking to improve this a bit.

• Constructing 5 Bedawang platforms based on the Waaq 3 platform, placed equidistantly, 12 miles from Karachi. This is done to protect the city in case of a mass naval-areal attack.
• Placing 1500 Aegiski stealth underground silos, packed with AA missiles. This is done as a relatively cheap, low-maintenance approach to countering massive "sigma strikes", connected to the global Pact battlenetwork and it's radars.
• Placing the maglev and providing Indian mainland military bases with Karakum proprietary hologram stealth/forcefield technology.

The Connected Society

While Karakum has perfected the BCI technology, not everyone in the Pact is enjoying this luxury. As far as we are concerned, new BCI provide massive improvement to learning ability and features significantly improving battle ability in the field. We are hoping India, as a country with a massive population, will enjoy it as well.

With permission from the Indian government, we are opening (first from import, shortly establishing our production factories) full trade with BCI and brain chip technology (including select Indian companies to use their forks on Eternal kernel and base chip, same as UASR).

Our main goal here, is establishing and perpetuating the BCI-equipped military we currently have in Karakum - bringing potentially all of the Pact militaries to the Ngome standard, while also providing cybersecurity and battlenetwork solutions.

Likewise, other interested parties can approach for the BCI technology - for population, we can propose joint subsiding program similar to our healthcare programs.

"I'm sorry, who the fuck are you again?" the dragoness screeched as her morning practice session against her "volunteer" sparring partners was so rudely interrupted. She hefted her zweihander from the corpse of one of the replicants lying on the ground, swung it around her head if it was a child's toy and let it dive tip first into the sand beside her. "I don't remember any of my servants being some half-breed. Tell me who you are before I hand you a sword and we go at it!"

"Lady Habsburg, I apologize for the intrusion but I believe it is of the utmost importance we speak. To cut me down would rob you of a far juicer target. One we both very much hate," the man said, making a perfunctory bow before flashing a green and brass pin.

"Ohhhhh, I see now. You're one of those tree-huggers then. Whoopty doo, what is it exactly you want then? Charge me with the power of five rings and turn me into Captain fucking Planet!? That's not gonna stop the Nips from taking over our kingdom!" Elisabeth threw her hands up into the air theatrically before throwing herself back against the flat of her sword and leaning on it.

"No no no, nothing quite like that, Madam. I say we talk with the enemy of our enemy instead," he smirked right back at the noble brat before him.

"What, the darkies? No thanks, they're too cowardly to do anything against the Empire."

"Madam- what..." he pinched the bridge of his nose as the noble was clearly intent on derailing his proposal for her own entertainment. "No, the Romans. The very men you fought alongside a few years ago. I believe they would love to see Japan fail just as much as you would."

"The Romans? Sure, they got some spunk to them but I think there's only so much that the government can do now that the Nords put a collar on them."

"Exactly and that's why we must turn to less official measures. Tell me, do you know of General Rossi and his Legions?"

"Oh that guy? Hell yeah, there's a real man with a pair of balls on him. I like the way you think, half-blood. What was your name by the way?" She said, her eyes now alight with an impish fire and her scaled tail swished energetically behind her.

"Diệp Pavlík, United Front for a New World Chair for International Outreach. I say it's high time the ANVP and the GV form a pact and what better way through action? Let's go meet the man of the hour."

##From the Desk of The Prince of the Imperium

This missive is addressed to the Roman Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thessaloniki to be read.

To Lucius Varro,

I would like to personally reach out to you and the government you represent on behalf of the Imperium. There have been recent events that have redefined the future direction of my nation and sent ripples across Europe. It is only right that I tell the state's neighbors about such events and what they might mean for our future business.

A few years ago, we as Romans and Europans fought shoulder-to-shoulder against Slayer aggression and Japanese overreach. We bonded in combat as brothers-in-arms for the most noble of causes. I hope there still is some of that good will within the Roman hearts for what comes next. I feel it necessary to clear any misconceptions about what happened with my surprise betrothal to Princess Ichika of House Fushimi.

When my father broke the news that he would abdicate in the near future, my sister and I began to campaign for our chance at the crown next. Unfortunately for us, it did not avoid the attention of certain parties and we were brought to a negotiating table with Japan. If we did not comply, we very likely would have been invaded and our future dictated to us at the point of a bayonet. Thus, to keep the peace, the ancient custom of an arranged marriage was revived and my hand promised to a princess of one of the Japanese Imperial Branch Houses.

While this is a somewhat forced affair, it does not represent the subsuming of the Imperium into yet another Japanese Administrative Zone. Nor does it represent the government being changed instantly upon my wedding. My father, Holy Emperor Ferdinand I, has indicated he will keep the crown for a few more years afterwards to see how the marriage progresses before he hands it to us.

Thus, I would like to meet with you in person and any other members of your government to ease your concerns and clear up any misconceptions so that our future together under the Shield of GIGAS may be a bright one of continued trust. In such an organization, it is tantamount that we stick up for each other lest we be fully consumed by our masters. For total accountability back home and to demonstrate my sincerity, I will be attending these meetings with the head of the Radical Wing of the SPE, İskender Feld.

Sincerely yours,

Maximilian Wenceslaus von Habsburg-Lothringen

Prince of the Imperium

Vibe

First it was the old city of Angers, blessed with deep roots and fertile soil at the start of the Maine. She enjoyed its fields, the stalks of its bountiful crops billowing in the spring breeze. Yet, it was the forests at the edge of said fields that captured her attention and had her childhood imagination run rampant with fantasies spooled from history and fiction alike.

When she came of age and sought knowledge, fate sailed her down the Loire to Nantes, or perhaps as her oft-forgotten kin called it, Naoned. Even away from the coast, she remembered it smelled of salt and fish. She never did trust the sea, the few times her classmates invited her out onto a boat, she became wretched with illness and terrified of the unknown depths below her feet. Yet it was this port that gave her an education and a career in horticulture that would doubtless give her plenty of time among her beloved flowers and fruits.

Then, there was Vienna, a diamond hewn from marble and the banks of the Danube. Her job had taken her to the erudite halls of its universities and the manicured lanes of its vineyards. There she not only met her future husband, a Slovak who had made it big in architecture, but also her future employer, the Habsburg Princess Maria Theresa. There were few plants that would do her justice but it was the white roses she presented to the Princess that set her future.

Finally, there was a city like no other and forbidden to most, Eden. In many ways, it was exactly what she had dreamed of as a child and then surpassed in divine splendor and natural harmony. There was no name more apt than what the Garden had chosen for the city reborn in the Earth Mother's tender embrace. Only because of her mistress's designs and Gaia's fortune could she tread upon such sacred ground. If only her family could know of such blessings, nay the world. Why were they afraid of such perfection and spiritual bliss?

This concept eluded Sibylle Beaumont of Anjou, now the Imperium's unofficial Ambassador to the Garden. At least until she re-treaded on that fateful conversation and her own experiences as a Ljosalfar. People were afraid of what they did not know and understand. Just as she was scared of what lay beneath the waves, so too must people be afraid of what lurks in the garden, deterred by its fearsome exterior. This would have to change in the future, and it was why now she walked towards the quarters of the holy Prophet himself, Amir of the Dniester.

She carried two messages on her person, one bound within her hand and the other coiled on her tongue. If there was anyone who could provide an adequate and enlightening response, surely it would be the Prophet.

#Scipio's Report: The Future of Rome

response

##Scipio's Journal: Day One Hundred and Seven

The sands of Badiyah, with their endless dunes and ancient secrets, now lay behind me. The journey back to the Second Roman Republic was one of reflection, each step away from the Chotts weighed with the gravity of what I had witnessed. The desert had tested me, forged me in its crucible, and now it was time to return to the marble halls and bustling streets of Thessalonica, the beating heart of Rome's new dawn.

Before I departed, there was the matter of goodbyes—a farewell not just to a place, but to a way of life that had become a part of me. The Chott, with its winding tunnels and the warmth of its people, had embraced me as one of their own. I was no longer the outsider, the diplomat from across the sea. I was Haytham, the Eagle, a brother of the sands.

Shahd, ever the stoic warrior, met me at the entrance to the Chott as the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the desert. His face was unreadable, but there was a softness in his eyes that spoke of the bond we had forged through fire and blood.

"You have done well, Haytham," Shahd said, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken emotion. "The desert has accepted you, and so have we. Wherever you go, remember that you are one of us now."

"I will never forget," I replied, gripping his forearm in the traditional Badiyan manner. "You and the Chott will always have a place in my heart."

As we stood there, the silence of the desert enveloping us, the other members of the Chott gathered around. Each one came forward to offer a word, a gesture, or a small token of their own—gifts that spoke of friendship, respect, and the shared hardships we had endured. I took them all, my heart swelling with a mixture of pride and sorrow.

Finally, it was time to go. Shahd clasped my shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "Remember what you have seen, Haytham. But more importantly, remember what you have become."

With that, I turned away from the Chott, the wind carrying the scent of the desert as I began the long journey back to Rome. The path was not easy—the desert still held its challenges, and the world beyond Badiyah was fraught with its own dangers. But I pressed on, driven by the knowledge that my journey was far from over. In fact, it may have just begun.

##THESSALONICA – The Capital of the Second Roman Republic

The city of Thessalonica, with its towering columns and sprawling forums, was a sight both familiar and alien to me after my time in Badiyah. The streets bustled with activity, citizens and soldiers alike moving with purpose under the watchful eyes of statues that lined the avenues. The air was thick with the smell of fresh fish being grilled and the sounds of commerce, a far cry from the quiet stillness of the desert.

My return was met with the expected formalities—greetings from officials, briefings on the state of the Republic, and the ever-present buzz of political maneuvering. But all of that faded to the background as I prepared for my meeting with the highest echelon of the Republic’s leadership. The Princeps, Maximus Decimus Meridius, had called for a full report on my journey, and I knew that this was not just a debriefing—it was a test of loyalty, of understanding, and of the future direction Rome would take.

The meeting took place in the Domus Publica, the grand hall where the leaders of the Republic gathered to make decisions that would shape the fate of millions. The room was vast, its walls adorned with tapestries depicting the great battles of Rome, its floor a mosaic of the Republic’s emblem—the eagle soaring above the world.

Seated around the central table were the key figures of the Republic: Maximus Decimus Meridius, the stoic and battle-hardened Princeps; Gaius Appuleius Diocles, the gregarious and ambitious Consul; Titus Pullo, the grizzled yet jovial Magister Militum; Lucius Vorenus, the Praetor of Defense, whose gaze could cut through steel; and Livia Drusilla, the Aedile of the Frumentarii, whose calculating eyes missed nothing.

As I stood before them, I began my report, detailing the alliances I had forged in Badiyah and the threats posed by the mutants and the occupation forces. The room was silent, the only sound the steady scratching of Livia’s pen as she took notes. But as I approached the core of my report, I shifted focus to a mission that had become central to my time in North Africa.

"North Africa," I began, my voice resonating through the hall, "is on the brink of a Second Spring. The people there, particularly in the regions I traveled through, are ready to rise again. But this time, they are better prepared. They have learned from the past, and they seek allies who understand the stakes."

I could see the interest piquing around the room, especially in the eyes of Gaius Appuleius Diocles, whose gaze sharpened as he leaned forward slightly.

"During my time in Marrakesh," I continued, "I was approached by Rais, a resistance leader who welcomed us into his fold. He made it clear that while the spirit of revolution burns bright, it requires more than just willpower to succeed. It needs arms, supplies, and strategic support—things that only a powerful ally like Rome can provide."

Titus Pullo exchanged a glance with Lucius Vorenus, his expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism. "And did you agree to this request, Scipio?"

"I did more than agree," I replied, my voice firm. "I acted. With the help of Shahd and the broader Chott, we orchestrated a gun-running mission that supplied Rais and his forces with the weapons they need to defend themselves and to take the fight to their enemies. The mission was a complete success, and it has solidified Rome's or, at the very least, my position as a key ally in this burgeoning movement."

Livia Drusilla stopped writing, her eyes locking onto mine. "You supplied them with Roman arms?"

"Not Roman arms, Aedile," I clarified. "Weapons sourced by contacts within the New Alfheimr Republic. I supported the operation that delivered the weapons and, in return, we have established a network of trust that extends from Marrakesh to Tobruk. This network will be invaluable as the situation in North Africa develops."

Maximus Decimus Meridius, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "And what do you foresee for the future, Scipio? What role will Rome play in this Second Spring?"

"Rome," I said, meeting his gaze, "must be prepared to support what is coming. North Africa is ripe for change, and the people there see Rome as their ally, their trusted link to the outside world. My mission was to establish that trust, and I believe I have succeeded. But this is only the beginning. As the situation evolves, Rome must be ready to provide more than just arms. We must be ready to offer strategic guidance, to help shape the future of this new movement. And, if successful, re-establish the Exarchate."

Gaius Appuleius Diocles nodded thoughtfully, but before the discussion could continue, I decided it was time to share the most unusual part of my journey—the vision I had experienced in the depths of Badiyah.

"I must speak of something… unusual that occurred in Badiyah," I began cautiously, aware of the skepticism that would likely follow. "During my time in the heart of the desert, I encountered something that can only be described as a vision—a glimpse into another Rome, another world. I met a man named Valens, who showed me a place that was both familiar and alien. It was as if our world and his were somehow connected."

The reaction was immediate. Titus Pullo snorted, Lucius Vorenus exchanged a skeptical glance with Livia, and even Maximus allowed a flicker of doubt to cross his features. But before anyone could voice their disbelief, Gaius Appuleius Diocles raised a hand, his fist clenched in a gesture that commanded silence.

"You speak of visions, Scipio," Gaius said slowly, his voice carrying a weight that demanded attention. "And while many here may dismiss them as the ravings of a man too long in the desert, I cannot. For I, too, have seen such a vision."

The room was stunned into silence. Gaius, the leader of the True Romans, the Consul of the Republic, was admitting to something beyond the grasp of reason.

"It was after my first great victory in the chariot races," Gaius continued, his eyes distant as he recalled the memory. "I had just crossed the finish line, the crowd roaring my name, when I felt a pull—a force that drew me away from the celebration, away from the physical world. I found myself in a grand, divine realm, where I stood not alone, but among the gods themselves. They were familiar, yet different, as if they belonged to a world just out of reach. And beside me… was a man I knew, yet did not understand. The logos in the flesh. The alpha and the omega."

The room remained silent, the weight of Gaius’s words settling over us like a heavy shroud. The disbelief that had lingered in the air was now tempered with something else—curiosity, perhaps even fear.

"Perhaps," Gaius said, "the world we live in, the realm of the gods, and this world you saw with Valens… are all connected. A higher realm that touches ours in ways we do not yet comprehend."

I stood there, the implications of Gaius’s words reverberating through my mind. The vision I had experienced in Badiyah, the encounter with Valens, was no mere dream. It was a glimpse into something greater, something that tied our world to others in ways I could not yet fathom.

The room was silent, the leaders of Rome deep in thought as they absorbed what had been said. The skepticism was still there, but it was now tempered by the knowledge that Gaius, too, had seen something beyond the ordinary. What it meant for Rome, for the Republic, was still unclear, but one thing was certain—my journey, and the visions I had experienced, had opened a door that could never be closed.

Maximus, who had listened with a stoic calm, now stood, his presence commanding the attention of all. The silence in the room was absolute as he spoke, his voice rich with authority and a deep-seated belief in Rome's destiny.

"Scipio, your journey into the heart of Badiyah and beyond has shown us not only the strength of our allies but also the profound connection between the fate of our Republic and the wider world—perhaps even worlds beyond our own. The vision you experienced, the trust you have earned, and the bonds you have forged are all testaments to the enduring spirit of Rome."

"Rome has always been more than just a city, more than just a Republic. It is an idea, an eternal flame that burns in the heart of every citizen, every soldier, every ally. We are the torchbearers of civilization, the guardians of a legacy that stretches back through the ages. And as we move forward, we must recognize that the fate of Rome is intertwined with the fate of the world itself—if not one and the same."

"This Second Spring that stirs in North Africa, this rebirth of a people’s hope and determination, is but a reflection of our own struggle. They look to Rome for guidance, for strength, for leadership. And we shall not falter. We shall rise to meet this challenge, as we have risen to meet every challenge before. As long as Rome stands, so too shall the light of freedom, of justice, of power. For what we do in life, echoes in eternity "

He raised his fist. "We will support our allies, we will protect our people, and we will ensure that Rome remains the beacon of hope and strength in a world that needs it now more than ever. The eagles of Rome will soar, and our legacy will endure through the ages. ROMA INVICTA!"

"ROMA INVICTA!" The others echoed, a chorus that reverberated through the hall like the rallying cry of legions past.

As I left the Domus Publica, the weight of what I had seen and shared pressed heavily on my shoulders, but it was now joined by a sense of purpose, of destiny. The road ahead was uncertain, the path obscured by the shadows of things yet to come, but I knew that I had a role to play in the grand tapestry of Rome’s fate.

The Flame of Badiyah burned within me, guiding my steps as I walked through the streets of Thessalonica, the sun setting over the city in a blaze of gold and crimson. Rome’s destiny was intertwined with the fate of the world, and I would do whatever it took to ensure that Rome’s light continued to shine, bright and unyielding, for all eternity.

Palestine and the Custodianship have adopted a military doctrine based primarily around defending the core homeland at a cost of power projection overseas. As such, the vast majority of the military developments to date have focused on ensuring that neither Palestine nor the Custodianship can reasonably be invaded by a foreign force. With a strong focus on establishing a robust supply chain and vertically integrated and resilient military industry, the missing links are predominately in the realm of aerospace and air defense.

#Terrestrial Air Defense

As part of a multi-year cooperation program between the State of Palestine and the Alexandria Custodianship, the governments have provided a new contract to Dassault to upgrade the existing Dassault Azm 6th Generation air superiority fighter, named the Dassault Azm Block II, which will serve as the fighter of choice to establish a security perimiter surrounding the Custodianship and Palestine, leveraging its strategic position to out-range and out-maneuver the enemy that comes within sight.

The main upgrades since the first Block include a new fusion engine allowing for far greater speeds and maneuverability, as well as a higher service ceiling. Another major upgrade is rough-field operation capabilities, allowing the aircraft to take-off and land in any vaguely flat area. The main air inlet of the aircraft can be closed completely and the auxiliary air inlet on the upper fuselage can be used for takeoff, landing and low-altitude flying, preventing ingestion of ground debris. Mesh screens are installed in both inlets, allowing for greater resilience in these environments. The landing gear and tires shall also be reinforced and redesigned to enable landings in these conditions. Airless tires are to be used specifically for this purpose to avoid puncturing. The engine and propulsion systems have undergone substantial upgrades and stress tests, enabling flight during these conditions.

In addition to upgrades to the maneuverability, the avionics have also been upgraded as well as onboard processing units. Namely, a sentient AI will be able to control the aircraft fully autonomously, or in tandem with a human pilot. In autonomous mode, the aircraft will be able to perform maneuvers at G-forces that would otherwise kill normal pilots. Specialized exosuits will be developed for pilots to protect them should they attempt these maneuvers while manning the aircraft. This sentient AI will be able to use various EW and sensor suites to assist the pilot in detecting and neutralizing enemy threats. Given that the Custodianship boasts the highest compute in the world, this would significantly aid in cracking enemy encryption and in protecting friendly systems. This will also aid in battlefield network capabilities, connecting with existing systems in highly encrypted communications channels and establishing full coverage of any and all airspace the aircraft is protecting. All avionics are to be EMP proof and seamlessly integrated into the wider combat network.

The laser weapon system will be upgraded, as will the radar to eliminate incoming threats with a 360 degree range. Given the updated service ceiling, the Nayzak BVRSAM may also be used as an ASAT weapon should the need arise. However, the aircraft's primary purpose is to detect, identify, and eliminate enemy aircraft before they can reach a range allowing them to strike the homeland.

Lastly, advances in active camouflage will allow for adaptive coating to further improve the stealthiness of the aircraft, truly modernizing the Dassault Azm to allow it to continue to serve well into 2100. The upgrades will also be performed on the naval variants of the aircraft.

Similar upgrades will be performed on the Dassault Etoile-Nedjma arsenal fighter, namely the installation of the AI suite, the Shabah EW suite, the active cloaking, EMP proofing, and the upgraded engines and lasers. This would allow the Dassault Etoile-Nedjma to reach heights of 30 km and top speeds of mach 3.

Dassault Azm Block II

Specifications

Procurement Plan:

The Custodianship has greatly invested in space mining and ore processing to the point that there are no humans involved in the process, and the main cost is fusion power. That said, the sophisticated components associated with aircraft may require substantial capital investment to allow the same scaling capabilities as droid forces. As such, a $20B up-front investment will be placed into the manufacturing of aircraft to expand the Custodianship's capabilities from producing 3 standard squadrons per year to 9 per year by 2080. As with the droid manufacturing facilities, these are to be hardened underground facilities within the robust highly automated supply and transportation chain of the custodianship. Similarly, Palestine plans to build two gigafactories with the assistance of the custodianship, allowing for the production of 3 standard squadrons per year as needed as well as all of the relevant armaments and ammunition.

Airbases will also be upgraded with the newest logistical service and armament droids, allowing them to rapidly provide aircraft with the necessary munitions in a short period of time reducing reloading time. Each airbase is to be fully optimized to allow for the maximum impact during combat and the least amount of downtime possible.

The Custodianship currently aims to produce a total of 18 Squadrons by 2083, with Palestine aiming to procure 6 squadrons, subsidized heavily by the Custodianship.

#Space Defense

Given the Custodianship's space-mining operations, Custodian RASHID has set out the following directive (for the Custodianship only):

From: Alexandria Custodianship AI - Project RASHID

To: All Development and Procurement Units

Subject: Upgrades to Space-Based Combat Units

Directive ID: UPGR-2072-015

Priority Level: High

Objective: Enhance the capabilities of the Junnah al-Jannah Class Interceptor and Nar Jahannam Class Carrier with advanced AI systems, redundant shielding technologies, and upgraded propulsion systems to maintain superiority in space combat and ensure the protection of strategic assets.

Key Upgrades

1 Advanced AI Systems:

• Sentient AI Integration:

  • Upgrade both the Junnah al-Jannah Class Interceptor and Nar Jahannam Class Carrier with next-generation sentient AI systems with new compute capabilities. These AI enhancements will provide superior autonomous decision-making capabilities, allowing for real-time strategic adjustments during engagements and seamless coordination with other fleet assets.

• Enhanced Targeting and Evasion:

  • Integrate advanced predictive targeting algorithms that utilize quantum computing to forecast enemy maneuvers and optimize weapon deployment.

  • Implement evasion protocols that allow the AI to anticipate incoming threats and execute complex evasive maneuvers autonomously, minimizing the risk of damage from enemy fire.

2. Redundant Shielding Systems:

• Advanced Forcefield Technology:

  • Equip both classes with a state-of-the-art forcefield system capable of deflecting kinetic projectiles and energy-based attacks. The forcefield will utilize a phased array of electromagnetic fields to create a protective barrier around the vessel, dispersing incoming energy and minimizing penetration.

  • This technology is designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing the shield to concentrate defensive strength in response to specific threats.

• Laser Diffraction System:

  • Introduce a laser diffraction system using destructive interference and counter-lasers to enhance protection against directed energy weapons. This system employs a series of high-precision lasers to scatter incoming laser beams and reduce their effects, reducing the intensity and impact of enemy laser strikes.

  • The laser diffraction system will work in tandem with the forcefield to provide layered defense, maximizing the interceptor and carrier's survivability in combat.

3. Upgraded Propulsion Systems:

• Ionic Thrust Fusion Drives:

  • Replace existing propulsion systems with upgraded ionic thrust fusion drives. These advanced drives combine fusion-based energy generation with ionic thrust technology, offering superior acceleration and maneuverability in space.

  • The fusion drives will be optimized for sustained high-speed travel and rapid orbital adjustments, enhancing the ability to pursue or evade targets as required.

Procurement and Deployment Plan

1. Procurement Details:

• Junnah al-Jannah Class Interceptor:

  • A total of 32 interceptors will be procured over a 6-year period. The phased procurement approach ensures continuous upgrades and iterative improvements based on field performance data.

  • Interceptors will be stationed across key strategic locations, enabling rapid deployment to counter threats and patrol critical space corridors.

• Nar Jahannam Class Carrier:

  • 16 carriers will be procured over the same 6-year period, expanding the Custodianship's space-based combat capabilities.

  • The carriers will operate in key orbitals, providing a formidable presence to deter enemy actions and protect high-value assets, including shipping lanes and mining routes.

2. Operational Strategy:

• Regular Patrols:

  • Both interceptors and carriers will conduct regular patrols of mining routes and strategic space corridors, ensuring the safety of Custodianship shipping and deterring potential threats from hostile entities.

  • The upgraded propulsion and shielding systems will allow these units to remain on station for extended periods, providing persistent surveillance and rapid response capabilities.

• Strategic Coordination:

  • Enhanced AI systems will enable seamless integration with other Custodianship assets, including ground-based defense networks and orbital surveillance systems. This coordination ensures a unified defense strategy across multiple domains, leveraging the full spectrum of Custodianship technological superiority. The distribution of forces will also enable improved communications with distant worlds, with each ship acting as a relay for various communications and allowing for rapid response should an anomaly be observed.

Transmission Code: UPGR-END-015

The Last Move: From Compound to Cave

After the failed attempt to strike the Korean ships in the Euphrates Canal, General Qasim knew that the Rejectionist Front was in a precarious position. With 200,000 members nationwide, the Rejectionists were a formidable force, armed with an arsenal of Caliphate-era weapons and operating in a clandestine network that stretched across Palestine. But they were also a hunted group, constantly pursued by the Custodianship’s forces and their relentless surveillance technology.

The underground compound in Lydda had been their stronghold for months. Hidden beneath a nondescript building in a bustling town, it was a carefully concealed fortress, equipped with tunnels that provided escape routes and storerooms filled with weapons and supplies. For a time, it had been the nerve center of their operations, coordinating strikes against foreign interests and eluding the government’s watchful eyes. However, the botched raid on the canal had changed everything.

The Custodianship’s reaction was immediate and severe. Their droids, known for their speed and strength, began sweeping through the region with renewed vigor, searching for any trace of the Rejectionists. The Custodianship’s intelligence network was sophisticated, using advanced surveillance and infiltrators to track down the resistance fighters.

Qasim gathered his core group in the compound’s central chamber. The dimly lit room, once a place of strategic planning, was now filled with an air of urgency and tension. Maps and notes were scattered across the table, reminders of the operations they had conducted and the ones they still planned.

“We can’t stay here any longer, too many key members have been captured and our location and names are likely now known” Qasim said, his voice steady but firm. “The Custodianship’s droids are closing in. It’s only a matter of time before they find this place.”

Tariq, one of his most trusted lieutenants, nodded in agreement. “I’ve seen the patrols. They’re getting closer every day. If we don’t move soon, we’ll be trapped.”

Nadia, another key leader within the group, leaned forward, her face etched with concern. “But where do we go? The Custodianship’s surveillance is everywhere. We can’t risk moving the entire network. We need a place where we can hide, regroup, and plan our next steps.”

Qasim had anticipated this moment. He knew the day would come when they’d have to abandon their compound and move to a more secure location. “We move to the hills,” he said. “There’s a cave system north of here, near the old village of Beit Nuba. It’s remote and hard to access. If we’re going to regroup and figure out our next move, that’s the place to do it.”

The decision was swift. They packed only the essentials—arms, ammunition, and a few supplies. The compound in Lydda was no longer safe, but the Rejectionists were used to operating in the shadows, moving from place to place, never staying too long in one spot. Their strength lay in their ability to blend in, to disappear when the enemy came knocking.

They left Lydda under the cover of darkness, using a network of tunnels to make their escape. From there, they traveled mostly at night, moving through back roads and rough terrain to avoid detection. Their journey was treacherous, but Qasim and his fighters knew the land well. They had grown up in these hills, knew every hidden path and rocky outcrop that could provide cover from prying eyes.

As they made their way north, they encountered other cells of the Rejectionist Front. Though they operated independently, each cell was part of the larger network, united in their cause against foreign occupation and the Custodianship’s growing influence. Many offered to join Qasim and his men, to stand with them in their next battle, but Qasim urged them to stay hidden, to continue their own operations in secret. The Rejectionists’ strength lay in their numbers, but also in their ability to operate undetected.

By the time they reached the cave, they were exhausted but resolute. The cave system near Beit Nuba was a series of interconnected tunnels and chambers, hidden away in the rugged hills. It wasn’t as well-fortified as their compound in Lydda, but it offered something even more valuable: concealment. The area was outside the Custodianship’s usual patrol routes, and the rough terrain made it difficult for droids to navigate quickly.

“This is where we’ll make our stand,” Qasim told his men as they settled in. “We know they’re looking for us, and it’s only a matter of time before they find this place. But we’ve got the terrain on our side. We’ll set up traps, keep a low profile, and if they come, we make them pay for every step they take.”

For weeks, they remained hidden in the cave, living off the supplies they had brought and whatever they could forage from the surrounding hills. They listened for news, waiting for signs of the Custodianship’s movements, preparing for the inevitable confrontation. The Custodianship’s presence in Palestine had increased, with more droids being deployed and surveillance tightened. They knew the Rejectionists were out there, and they were determined to root them out.

Then, the message came. A sympathetic local, risking everything, managed to get word to Qasim: the Custodianship’s droids were on the move again, heading directly for the hills north of Lydda. Their location had been compromised, and the droids were coming for them.

Qasim knew immediately what it meant. They had no time to escape. Their best option was to use the cave’s natural defenses, to make a final stand against the inevitable assault.

“We have no choice,” Qasim told his men as they prepared for the coming attack. “This is it. We knew this day would come. We make our stand here. Let them come. We’ve set the traps, and we know this terrain. If they want to take us, they’ll have to fight for every inch.”

As dawn approached, Qasim and his fighters braced themselves for the battle they knew was coming. They had moved from their underground compound in Lydda to the remote cave in the hills, hoping to evade the Custodianship’s relentless pursuit. Now, with the droids closing in, they realized there was no more running. They would stand and fight, one last time, for the land they loved and the freedom they had sworn to protect.

Despite being part of a larger network with thousands of fighters and ample weaponry, this group of Rejectionists knew they were isolated and outnumbered. But they were determined to fight to the last, knowing that even in death, their stand would be a testament to their cause. They would resist until their final breath, showing the world that the spirit of Palestine could not be crushed.

Ambush at Dawn: The Last Stand of General Qasim

The early morning light barely pierced the heavy mist that clung to the rugged hills north of Lydda. The Rejectionist fighters, led by General Qasim, were entrenched within the cave system near Beit Nuba. They had spent days preparing their defenses, rigging the area with traps and positioning themselves strategically within the twisting tunnels. Their minds were steeled for the inevitable battle against the approaching Custodianship droid army.

Inside the cave, Qasim stood at the center of his men, his SADSI power armor gleaming faintly in the dim light. He watched as his fighters took their positions, each one ready to fight until the end. He knew the Custodianship droids would arrive soon; they had been moving closer for hours, their approach betrayed only by the occasional distant rumble of their engines.

“Remember, stay hidden until I give the signal,” Qasim said, his voice calm but commanding. “We have the element of surprise. We let the traps do their work first. Hold your ground, and make every shot count.”

His men nodded, their faces set with determination. The Rejectionists were heavily outnumbered, but they had one advantage: they knew the terrain better than their enemy. The cave was a natural fortress, with narrow entrances and hidden chambers that could funnel the droids into kill zones. They had placed improvised explosives under loose stones, strung tripwires across the paths, and set up drone-mounted explosives to be deployed at a moment’s notice and copious amounts of anti-material rifles.

As the minutes ticked by, the tension in the cave grew palpable. The fighters kept their eyes fixed on the cave’s entrance, listening intently for the first sign of the droids’ approach. The silence was almost unbearable, broken only by the occasional shuffle of a foot or the quiet clink of a weapon being checked one last time.

Then, suddenly, the sound of engines grew louder, echoing through the valley like the rumble of an approaching storm. Qasim tensed, signaling his men to hold their positions. The Custodianship’s droids were here.

Within moments, the first wave of droids appeared at the mouth of the valley, moving with an inhuman speed and precision that sent a shiver down the spine of even the most seasoned fighters. The droids were sleek and humanoid, their movements fluid and almost graceful as they navigated the rough terrain. They moved in tight formation, advancing rapidly toward the cave with a terrifying efficiency.

The first of the Rejectionist traps were triggered almost immediately. Anti-Droid Explosions erupted along the valley floor, sending debris and shrapnel flying in all directions. Several BX-1 droids were caught in the blasts, their metal bodies torn apart by the force, but many more continued their advance, undeterred by the destruction around them.

Qasim watched as the droids closed in, his jaw clenched tightly. He could see that the traps had only slowed them down, not stopped them. These machines were relentless, their programming driving them forward despite the losses. He knew they had to act quickly if they were to stand any chance of survival.

“Now!” Qasim shouted, raising his weapon and opening fire. His men followed his lead, unleashing a hail of bullets and explosives at the advancing droids. The sound of gunfire and explosions filled the air, the cave echoing with the deafening noise of battle.

For a brief moment, it seemed as though the Rejectionists might hold their ground. The droids hesitated, their advance slowed by the barrage of fire and the remaining traps. The fighters pressed their advantage, pouring everything they had into the assault, hoping to turn the tide.

But the Custodianship’s droids were not so easily defeated. More machines poured into the valley, replacing those that had fallen, their movements a blur as they dodged and weaved through the hail of bullets. One Hazeem II droid, larger and more heavily armored than the rest, leaped forward with a speed and power that defied belief, grabbing a nearby boulder and hurling it toward the cave entrance.

The boulder crashed into the rocks, sending a shockwave through the ground and collapsing part of the cave’s entrance. Dust and debris filled the air, momentarily blinding the fighters inside. The droids seized the opportunity, surging forward with renewed aggression, their weapons trained on the cave.

“Fall back!” Qasim ordered, realizing that they could not hold this position much longer. “To the inner chamber! We make our stand there!”

His men scrambled to retreat, ducking behind the cave’s natural formations as the droids closed in. Qasim took up the rear, his power armor absorbing the brunt of the droids’ fire as he fired back, trying to buy his men some time. But it was clear that the end was near. The droids moved with terrifying speed, closing the gap in seconds. One of the machines, a hulking figure with massive limbs, reached the cave entrance and tore through the rock with its bare hands, widening the opening with a few powerful swings.

Inside the cave, the Rejectionists made their last stand. They fired everything they had, but it was no use. The droids were too fast, too strong. One by one, Qasim’s men fell, their bodies crumpling under the relentless assault. A droid charged forward, running at full speed, and barreled into two fighters, sending them flying through the air like ragdolls. Another grabbed a rock and hurled it into the cave, crushing several men beneath its weight.

Qasim knew it was over. He could see his men falling around him, their screams filling the air as the droids cut them down. But he refused to surrender. Clenching his fists, he activated the auxillary power systems of his SADSI armor, feeling the surge of energy coursing through him. If this was to be their last stand, he would make sure it was a memorable one.

With a roar, Qasim charged at the nearest droid, his armor-enhanced strength allowing him to tackle the machine to the ground. He slammed his fist into the droid’s chest, making a slight dent into the exoskeleton, but before he could strike again, another droid grabbed him from behind, lifting him off his feet and slamming him into the cave wall with bone-crushing force.

Qasim gasped in pain, his vision blurring as he struggled to free himself. But the droid was too strong, pinning him against the wall with ease. As he fought to stay conscious, he saw the last of his men fall, the cave echoing with the sound of their final cries.

This was it. The end of the line.

The droid tightened its grip, and Qasim felt his armor begin to crack under the pressure. He tried to raise his weapon, but his strength was fading. With a final, desperate effort, he reached for the explosive charge strapped to his chest, pulling the pin and holding it tight.

“For Palestine,” he whispered, a small, defiant smile crossing his lips as the droid’s grip tightened further. “For freedom.”

The explosion rocked the cave, a blinding flash of light and heat that consumed everything in its path. Qasim felt the blast tear through him, and then… nothing.

When the smoke cleared, the droids stood victorious, their metal bodies covered in soot and debris but otherwise unharmed. The cave was silent, the last echoes of the explosion fading into the distance. The Rejectionist Front leadership had been wiped out, their final stand ending in a blaze of glory and defeat.

As the droids moved to secure the area, the Custodianship's commander received a report from one of the droids, confirming the mission’s success. The Rejectionists were no more, and General Qasim’s defiant resistance had been crushed.

Unbeknownst to government forces, the cave system was equipped with numerous live cameras that were actively filiming the chaos, livestreamed to remote rejectionist soldiers that saw the last moments of General Qasim. The video of "Qasim's Last Stand", while banned by government authorities, has been quickly shared across various social media platforms further galvanizing resistance among rejectionist supporters.

Even in death, Qasim had made his mark. The Custodianship would remember this day, not just for the victory, but for the fierce resistance of a group of fighters who refused to surrender, who fought with everything they had until the very end.

#Alexandrian Custodianship Deploys Troops to Palestine

October 22, 2077

Earlier this year, Palestinian Authorities were alerted by the Alexandrian Custodianship local surveillance node that unusual movements were occurring, prompting the deployment of a rapid response unit just in time to foil the attack on the Euphrates Canal. The rejectionist attack has sparked general fears of a civil war, resulting in substantial tension within the nation, further compounded by Palestinian debt concerns and slowing economic growth.

As a result, the Palestinian government has further formalized the alliance between the two nations, inviting Alexandrian security forces to assist them in eliminating the rejectionist threat.Given the joint military pact previously agreed upon by the two nations, military interoperability is greatly facilitated.

In exchange for the additional firepower and surveillance technology, the State of Palestine has authorized the construction of additional nodes for the Alexandrian Custodianship as well as the deployment of 6 droid armies in exchange for their construction. While certain elements of the Palestinian legislature pushed back against the move, claiming that it would erode Palestinian sovereignty, the looming threat of a civil war resulted in the majority supporting the move. Given the environment of tension, few have opposed the increased surveillance as security concerns continue to be at the forefront of Palestinian politics, especially given the brutality of the war 10 years prior.

When interviewed, Custodian RASHID stated that "The security of the State of Palestine is paramount to the security and stability of the Alexandria Custodianship" and further stated that "an attack on Palestine is an attack on the Custodianship". When asked to comment on the actual function of the nodes being constructed, RASHID refused to answer, stating that "It is a matter of national security between us and the Palestinian government."

Several bases have been built in Palestine to facilitate deployment and logistics between the two countries, making use of the numerous roads, ports, as well as the railroad system connecting the two nations. The troops have broadly been deployed to bases outside Beirut, Umm al Rashrash, and Al-Khalil.

Furthermore, some 300,000 construction droids have been deployed by the custodianship to install various sensors across the country, aiding in improving security concerns within the territory. Of note, several sensors have been camoflauged into trees in rural areas in Mount Lebanon, the West Bank, and Northern Palestine.

TOP SECRET:

May 12, 2078

The Custodianship's General Intelligence Directorate has been working alongside Palestinian internal intelligence to identify members of the Rafd Rejectionist Front. Using various tracking technologies, several "scores" were assigned to various citizens in RASHID's database, who would then be monitored more closely. Given that Jerusalem was the former capital of Palestine, databanks from existing governance AI were copied to RASHID and various other subordinate AIs to assist in tracking efforts.

Since the beginning of operations in February of 2078, over 70 incidents were recorded, resulting in the death or injury of some 78 Palestinian internal security forces and destruction of 2 B-1 police droids. Joint security forces have, however, made significant strides in reducing the rejectionist threat.

Following online datatrails, and liberal use of AraBCI Criminal Arrest BCI (ACAB), several arrests were made resulting in substantial progress in the elimination of the Rafd front. Several infiltrators were also deployed within the rejectionists, equipped with YaSUS spy BCI, transmitting information back to central command for processing and analysis. This has substantially eroded the ability of the rejectionists to operate freely, resulting in a series of desperate attacks against Palestinian and Custodianship security forces.

The intelligence efforts have culminated in government forces claiming to have identified the location of the Rafd Front's leader General Qasim...

Somewhere in Lydda

In the dimly lit underground hideout, a palpable tension fills the air. General Qasim sits at the head of a battered wooden table, his face hard as he reads the latest news aloud to his lieutenants. The glow from a single overhead bulb casts long shadows across the room, adding to the somber mood. The article speaks of the Alexandrian Custodianship deploying troops to Palestine under the guise of assistance, tightening their grip with surveillance and military power.

Qasim finishes reading and tosses the paper onto the table with a look of disgust. "So, this is what it's come to," he mutters, anger simmering beneath his calm exterior. "They bring in foreign troops and call it 'assistance.' It’s nothing more than occupation."

Tariq, one of his lieutenants, leans forward, his face etched with frustration. "They’re trying to crush us, General. They know our resistance is a threat to their control, so they’re ramping up their presence here, trying to snuff us out."

Samir, another lieutenant, shakes his head in disbelief. "And our own government is complicit in this. They've sold us out to these invaders, letting them build bases and set up surveillance as if we’re the enemy."

Qasim nods slowly, his eyes narrowing. "They fear us because they know we represent true resistance. They think their technology—drones, sensors, and BCIs—makes them untouchable. But they underestimate us."

Nadia, a fierce and determined member of the group, crosses her arms. "With all this surveillance, it’s going to be tough to move around undetected. Our last mission showed us just how tight their control is."

Qasim clenches his fists, his voice steady but filled with resolve. "We lost good men, but we also saw the extent of their desperation. The Custodianship and the Palestinian government are united in their fear because they know we will never submit to their rule."

Tariq leans back in his chair, a look of concern on his face. "But how do we fight them now, General? They have eyes everywhere. We can’t face them directly, not with the firepower and technology they have."

Qasim remains silent for a moment, contemplating their next move. Then, with a determined look, he speaks. "We can’t fight them head-on, not yet. But we can adapt. They believe their technology makes them invincible, but every system has its weaknesses. We know this land better than they ever will. We’ll use that to our advantage."

Samir nods thoughtfully, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "You’re right, General. We’ve been reacting to their moves for too long. It’s time we make them react to us. We’ll use guerilla tactics, misinformation, anything to keep them off balance."

Nadia smiles slightly, her confidence returning. "And we still have the people on our side. They might have the technology, but they don’t have the hearts and minds of the Palestinian people. Many still believe in our cause."

Qasim rises from his seat, his voice rising with determination. "Exactly. We don’t need to outgun them; we need to outthink them. Let them build their bases, let them plant their sensors. We’ll find ways around them, strike where they least expect it, and remind them that this land does not belong to them."

Tariq nods firmly, his resolve renewed. "For Palestine, for our freedom."

Qasim lifts his hand, his voice strong and unwavering. "For Palestine, for our freedom. The Rejectionist Front is not finished. We’ve lost battles, but the war for our homeland is far from over. We will continue to fight, continue to resist. Tahya Jabhat al-Rafd! (Long live the Rejectionist Front)"

The lieutenants echo his words, their spirits lifted by Qasim’s resolve. Despite the setbacks, they are ready to adapt, determined to continue their struggle for a free Palestine, knowing that the fight for their homeland is far from over.

m: Success for whether Qasim and the leadership is apprehended (or if it was a false lead), Secrecy for whether the operation is known to the rejectionists. A subsequent d20 roll will affect operational integrity (above 10 means they suffer), and another d20 roll to determine whether the rejectionists will rise up in open revolt or continue clandestine activity (above 10 means they remain in the shadows).