Summoning Earth

Chapter 13: Arabian Strike

3:00 PM at the capital, Esthirant, Musway Avenue, Parpaldia Empire

Two young soldiers stood outside the government office, built in the Erthios architectural style, characterized by its vast domed roof and marble facade. They were enjoying a cigarette under the blazing afternoon sun. One soldier, holding an RM-10 rifle named Marquis, remarked, "Hey Blais, looks like the Prime Minister's motorcade is coming. Do you know what time it is?"

Blais, with his blond hair glistening in the sunlight, replied with a grimace, "Who knows? There's no one around to ask."

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of engines. A long line of black Xeln F cars, resembling armored Audi Type A models, approached. There were eight cars in total, carrying the Prime Minister and his security detail.

The soldiers hurriedly signaled for the welcoming committee. The first Xeln F stopped, and Prime Minister Kaios stepped out. He was a middle-aged man with graying brown hair and a long beard, dressed in a coatee uniform, exuding a calm demeanor.

From the second car emerged Valhal, a high-ranking official and military observer from the National Strategy Bureau. He was a stout man with a bowl haircut, accompanied by two bodyguards.

The third car carried Harin, a senior official from the Ministry of Finance. She stepped out in a black dress, holding an umbrella, which her assistant promptly shielded her with.

The fourth car carried Arde, the Minister of Defense and Supreme Commander of the Royal Parpaldian Armed Forces. He had a stern face, a fiery temperament, and a brisk, efficient manner, dressed in a Napoleonic-era military uniform, complete with a mustache and long sideburns.

The remaining cars carried journalists and Tibault, the mayor of the industrial city of Duro.

Mayor Pusso of Esthirant greeted the Prime Minister, his sycophantic tone as usual. "Welcome back, Prime Minister."

"How are the preparations for the meeting?" Kaios asked.

"Everything is ready, sir. Refreshments are prepared," Pusso replied.

With that assurance, Kaios led the guests inside.

4:15 PM inside the government office.

Under the grand chandelier, with its warm yellow light, and surrounded by oil lamps behind the guards, a large round table, about 10 meters in diameter, was set for the meeting. The glassware sparkled under the lights. The guests had enjoyed their tea and were ready to begin.

Prime Minister Kaios chaired the meeting, with Mayor Pusso assisting. Seated at the table were the four senior officials. Harin even had a recording device ready.

"Welcome, esteemed guests. On behalf of Emperor Ludius, I extend our gratitude," Kaios began. "Today's meeting concerns the imperial edict on national defense."

He handed out copies of the edict. Harin, Arde, and Tibault examined the document closely, but Valhal was more interested in a young man sitting nearby, who bore a striking resemblance to someone from Mu.

"Have you all read it?" Kaios asked.

"Yes, but we need more details to understand the Emperor's intentions," Arde said.

"Very well," Kaios said, receiving a document from Pusso. "Firstly, our naval forces are outdated compared to Mu and the Holy Mirishial Empire. If attacked, our ships would be easily outmatched."

Arde nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Our La Logen-class ships are obsolete compared to the advanced nations. Do you have new designs?"

"The Emperor has hired engineers from Mu to design new warships. We plan to have these ready by next year," Kaios said, showing the new design. "This is the Ironclad, made entirely of metal, with a displacement of 2,000 tons and equipped with steam engines and heavy artillery. It will revolutionize our navy."