The American In Another World
Chapter 42: Global Shift (2)
Cartalpas, the Mirishial Holy Kingdom
The bar's customers exploded into a spirited prospective discussion as the MNN camera crew inspected a variety of merchandise.
The first items examined included general stationery, items such as paper and stationery. Although these common objects were unable to attract any reaction from the Mirishial crowd, they were seen as reliable products, and some traders from less technologically advanced countries are considering buying it for their homeland.
The interview discussed basic goods and products such as exotic condiments, which attracted the interest of the wealthy who could now order new dishes from their chefs. The pieces of clothing featured are also fashionable and of good quality, convincing some people to look for American clothing.
Finally, interviews began to reach ****** when more interesting products were launched: luxury items.
A trader trying to sell your watch in the United States once talked about the superior quality that American products boast of. For not bringing back the items he described because of the exorbitant price, not many people believed him. After hearing the American success story in Philades, some became curious about his claims and went to see for themselves. Those who doubted the merchant stayed behind, scoffing at this 'strange' claim until now.
The first feature that caught their attention was the jewelry pinned on the watch. They look like luxury watches from you, except they are slimmer and better made. Paper sheets placed near the product itself indicate its cost, with price estimates in a handy supply placed next to prices in dollars.
Some drunk traders have to rub their eyes, doing double-takes as they observe prices in disbelief. Mentally converting the paso into their respective currencies, they realized that the price could be compared with the entire merchant ship. An hour of 'Rolex', according to the information displayed on the screen, could be worth as much as tens of pounds of magic gems.
Cheaper models are analyzed, providing relief for those hoping to acquire the American technology — that has evolved into a status symbol, potentially dethroning counterparty products from Mu. The rich no longer want your watch; they now want an American watch.
After closely examining American luxury goods, they proceeded to the final section, which was filled with strange tools and devices that seemed alien to Elysian viewers. Although they seemed alien, later explanations explained the object, revealing it as nothing more than a scientific counterpart to a device common within the Holy Mirishial Empire.
The first analyzed object is a flashlight, which is explained logically by the ambassador. The device emits light, but uses batteries rather than magic gems. For the miraculously incapable, this device represents an incredible increase of torches.
The next object is a fan, followed by an AC unit. Just like their Elysian counterparts, the device provides cooling services, although some people are confused as to why the AC unit has an exhaust. Could this be a sign that Americans are not as technologically advanced as many people claim? Some people tend to believe this, considering the Parpaldian people also have an air conditioning device that does not emit heat.
Many of the devices are not particularly surprising, with color television and radio being demonstrated. However, the real puzzle comes up as they look at more advanced electronics. The phone is quickly displayed as a device capable of contacting others remotely, unlike manacomm. Unlike manacomm, this 'mobile' is also capable of performing advanced calculations through an integrated 'calculator' program, capturing images and videos, and other functions.
The versatility of the phone shocked bar customers, driving them crazy as they debated the realism of the device. Some wondered if the demonstration was an elaborate ruse born of advanced magic, while others familiar with Mu's invention believed that the American invention was real. The blade descended into relative chaos, becoming louder than before. Excitement and anticipation towards Americans shot through the roof, reaching unprecedented heights as speculation rampaged through.
——
Runepolis
The capital city Mirishial shines with elegance, reflecting the sunlight of famous skyscrapers and their luxurious towers. The airship hovered in the sky above, providing city surveillance. Bright lights lit up throughout the city, dubbed the 'Sleepless Magical City'. Just like its American counterpart, the streets are lined with rows of tall buildings, though they are spread much better than in Manhattan.
Overlooking the nearby sea, the center of all Mirishial operations stands proudly. Known as Albion Castle, the medieval-looking structure has a half-mile buffer zone, with many defensive positions erected nearby and inside. Guard patrols and vehicles constantly roamed the area while a squadron of Alpha-3 Fighters maintained a defensive line over the city.
Inside the castle, a single man watches in silence as the units outside perform their duties. Standing tall, the 4,000-year-old elf showed no signs of aging other than her gray hair and wrinkles appearing on her face. His posture remained stiff, as if he was only a thousand years old. Behind him, his top officials gathered around a table to discuss the burgeoning events around the world. Hearing the seats swaying behind him, the Eighth Mirishial Emperor turned his attention away from the guards outside.
"Birkburn's."
A muscular black-haired man stood up, speaking to the emperor with his deep voice. “Your Excellency, we have increased the readiness level of our troops and have secured additional funding from the Treasury for military expansion. The patrols around Runepolis have been doubled and we are deploying magic technicians to build magic detectors and relay stations.”
"good. Hyrkanae?”
A masked official got up from his seat. Even among his friends, his identity was hidden. Only the Emperor really knew the identity behind the mask. “My emperor, the research project for Pal Chimera and Pal Cowne went according to plan. To speed up this effort, I have partitioned more budgets for hiring purposes. I have a list of professors at the Magic Academy and Valletta Academy who might be useful to us.”
The Mirishial Emperor thought deeply about the proposal. Recruiting more researchers might draw unwanted attention to their current projects, but sacrificing secrecy may be necessary depending on how quickly the Ancient Sorcerous Kingdom returns. “Hmm...” he folded both his hands on the table while weighing the advantages and disadvantages of the plan. "You can continue. Secrecy would be useless once the Ancient Sorcerous Kingdom made their presence known. Their arrival is near. Likewise, we must advance our technology. We must unlock the mystery of their war machine if we are to ensure the safety of our people, and the world.”
"Understand me, my Emperor." Hyrane. "I'll make arrangements for recruitment."
The eyes of the Mirishial Emperor turned to a different person. "Arn."
A blond man in his thirties stood up from his chair, bowing to the emperor. As the Director of the Mirishial Information Bureau, he provided a summary of his department's recent actions and knowledge. “Your Majesty, we found no new information regarding the Return Forecast. No sign of the return of the Ancient Sorcerous Kingdom had appeared. The Eimor Kingdom seemed to still be recuperating from the complete spell they spoke. If they want to cast another spell like that, we will likely be asked to send help in the form of a magic gem. ”
"So so. Liage, have your ministry work with the Treasury Department to secure the necessary resources. 'Immediately' is not enough information. We need predictions for their return date.”
"Yes, Your Majesty," he said, bowing his head.
Arneus nodded and continued, “Mirishial News Network has completed their assignment and is able to measure the overall level of technology of the United States.” Footage from the interview in the Kingdom of Altara is played on a thin screen that looks similar to a modern flat-screen TV.
As interviews progressed from American bomber recordings to US-made products, the Mirishial family slowly became more enamored, now taking this developing country seriously. Like many others, they had heard rumors of carrying light arrows and airplanes traveling faster than the speed of sound. Naturally, their minds were fixed on the Ravernal Empire, as only they were capable of such a feat. Fearing the Ravernal Empire returned early, they sent spies as soon as the rumors reached their ears.
By luck, one of these spies managed to sneak into the task force that was supposed to ambush the American fleet. With confirmation of the American ability of these spies, Arneus assigned the MNN to investigate, upon hearing that these Americans were relatively friendly. After all, if they were really the Ravernal Kingdom, then why would neighboring civilizations continue to exist?
After the video finished, the Mirishial audience was speechless. The first words came from the emperor himself, who had deduced the best move. “These Americans proved useful in our mission against the Ancient Sorcerous Kingdom.”
The emperor's adviser nodded in agreement.
“Liage, once you're done with the next shipment of magic gems, you should reach out to these Americans and establish a relationship with them. Time is very important.”
"That'll be over tonight, Your Majesty."
——
Arlington, Virginia
President Lee kept a close eye on his men working, leaning on the rails and holding a cup of coffee in one hand.
"Master President," Steven's voice came out from behind him.
Lee turned around, "Something new appears?"
Steven nodded. In his usual professionalism, he described the latest news in a monotonous voice. “Barry finally reached Mu beach for scheduled diplomatic visit. Wilton will stay with Barry for their return trip. Upon their arrival, Wilton reported concerns regarding fuel supplies for Elysian activities. We may need to increase the production of supplier vessels or look for other alternatives.”
"So so. Good thing our submarines and aircraft carriers are already nuclear powered. I must say, I still cannot forget the size of this world. By the way, how was that first contact?”
“Initial reception goes smoothly, and Ambassador Reiker will participate in discussions with the Mu government starting tomorrow.”
“Oh, that's amazing. I can't believe it's taken this long, but I'm glad we're officially talking to your government. Do we have any footage from Reiker's diplomatic staff?” Lee was curious about your surroundings itself. Satellite images can only show so much, and are lifeless compared to the vibrations that video in the field can offer.
“They will soon send the data package to our satellite. It took several hours before the next satellite was within range.”
"Hm," Lee nodded, slightly disappointed that he had not been able to satisfy his curiosity. “So,” said, changing the topic of conversation, “When Reiker can know more about... This Gra Valkan?”
“Talking with your officials should be completed by the end of next week. In the meantime, I can send a request to him to determine what Mu.” knows
Lee nodded in agreement. "That's great. I'll send you a list of questions today. Is there anything else?"
“One more thing, Mr. President. The Holy Mirishial Kingdom seems to be interested in us. It seems we have caught their attention, thanks to Ambassador Anders' interview with Mirishial News Network. The Mirishial Embassy in Mu has invited us to schedule an appointment with them. Who do you want to assign?”
“Hmm... Reiker has a plate full of priorities for the Mu Kingdom and the Gra Valka. Is Ambassador Anders still needed to coordinate with Director Kaios?”
“Familiar face might help, but it's not necessary. Anders' assignment with the Parpaldian Empire was unchanged, but the State Department did not state a problem with his reassignment.”
"good. Let's reassign Anders to the Mirishial Holy Empire. Have Reiker staff coordinate with their embassies to arrange a visit to their mainland. If Hendricks is available, we can reassign him to fill Anders' place in the Parpaldian Empire.
"I'll do it straight away, Mr. President," Steven said.
Lee turned his attention back to activities at the Current Actions Center. The bombardment of the port of Esthirant had just been completed, and Hawthorne's fleet awaited new orders. They blockaded the city, new targets were chosen and transport was ready to land if the Kaios coup plot did not come to fruition.
Lee muttered to himself in a state of near-prayer, "Everything now falls on you, Director Kaios."