Chapter 535: Fran Central Government and Governor's Office
January 13, 1591, Terra Calendar
11:30 AM.
Savannah Harbor, East Coast Region of the Federation.
In the early morning, golden rays of sunlight shone across the gently swaying sea. A luxury cruise ship from Fran slowly approached the dock, its massive silhouette reflected on the shimmering water, drawing the gazes of onlookers.
The ship's design was elegant and sophisticated, its hull predominantly silver-white and adorned with Fran's symbolic motifs, a testament to its distinguished status.
Inside the ship lay a spacious, specially modified space, far more than just a cargo hold or passenger area.
A complex mechanical structure and rail system hung from the high ceiling, while the floor was paved with solid alloy plates, surrounded by stabilizing supports and energy transmission pipelines. The central area was covered by a circular, transparent protective shield. Within, a modified silver dragon lay quietly, seemingly in some kind of deep hibernation.
This silver dragon was enormous, approximately 9.1 meters long, with a wingspan of approximately 13.7 meters. Its entire body was clad in modified armor, which reflected a faint silver luster in the sunlight. Its limbs and wings were equipped with the power lines of a steam-powered system, so sophisticated and complex that the dragon looked both a living creature and a formidable mechanical force. Its tail exhaust system, quietly hidden between its tail fins, hinted at its astonishing acceleration.
The silver dragon lay still, creating an atmosphere both solemn and technological.
The silver dragon's scales gleamed coldly in the light, as if adorned with stars.
Next to the dragon, two figures formed a stark contrast.
"The Edici capsule technology is truly impressive. Not only has it begun widespread civilian use, but they've also introduced even more advanced biological storage capsules.
Although we also have [Bio-Capsules] for storing conventional military dragons, these capsules are unable to accommodate highly elite dragons or those with a rebellious will. The Edici Federation's latest [Master Series Capsules], on the other hand, can accommodate highly elite dragons. Unfortunately, the internal space of these Master Capsules can cause up to 7% performance damage to elite dragons, as well as other minor spiritual hazards."
The speaker was a well-dressed man in his fifties, his features bearing the marks of time.
At this moment, his brow furrowed, his gaze tinged with regret at the silver dragon.
This man's name was Wordsworth.
He had participated in the Central Alliance's Monte Carlo anti-veil supernatural independence incident. At the time, he led fifteen [Archaeopteryx XIs] and nearly engaged in a clash with Messiah's [Salvation Army] and [Relief Society].
Of course, the incident was ultimately resolved by the Fourth Sword-Bearer of Heaven, who detained one of the perpetrators in the case and took him to the [Unknown Land] for ethical judgment.
"Flan had indeed previously neglected capsule technology. Although the military had developed capsules for assembling low-precision or [Biological Capsules], the cost was prohibitive and unsuitable for large-scale adoption."
The number and power of [Word Spirits] that can be deployed by highly elite dragons rivals the strength of one or even two [Dominators]. However, these elite dragons require regular maintenance, including inspection and maintenance of key components such as the [Steam Interaction Pump], spiritual systems, and weapon systems. Parts damaged or aged by ethereal corrosion should be replaced based on flight hours and component wear.
Specific types of aviation fuel are required. , dragon spinal fluid, special scale lubricant... Achieving this requires a well-trained technical team, including aircraft engineers, mechanics, and lineage interaction technicians.
A dragon pilot must undergo comprehensive training, including basic flight training, tactical training, simulator training, and more, all while ensuring their dragon compatibility.
The 7% performance loss caused by capsule technology to elite dragons is unacceptable, and the subsequent sporadic spiritual crises have severely impacted the pilot's interactive control.
The blond middle-aged man beside Wordsworth replied solemnly as he worked.
The middle-aged man who spoke was in his early thirties, dressed in the exclusive French Air Force uniform, looking serious and professional.
A virtual projection screen floated before the man, his fingers sliding lightly across the screen, manipulating the three-dimensional model before him. This model was the detailed structure of a silver dragon. The screen displayed various parameters and data about the dragon, including its length, wingspan, weight, and its internal steam propulsion system.
His eyes were focused and filled with professional enthusiasm, clearly demonstrating his deep passion and sense of responsibility for this technology and mission.
"Of course I know, Captain René."
Wordsworth glanced at René Guinomer, an ace pilot from the Gold Coast Squadron, 8th Squadron of the Frantian Aerospace Forces' Dragoons.
Rene Guinomer was not only qualified to pilot the [Windbreaker Silver] dragon before him, but also a rare [Dominator] pilot.
"It's a shame," Wordsworth sighed. "If the technical issues can be resolved, Fran will be no less capable of projecting power on Terra than the Knights of Heaven and the Deep Space Fleet."
Power projection is a crucial military strategic concept, referring to a nation's ability to leverage its military might to demonstrate influence, conduct military operations, or safeguard national interests far from home.
This capability involves rapidly moving troops, weapons systems, and supplies to key areas to respond to potential threats or conduct military intervention, ensuring the achievement of Terra's overall interests and strategic objectives.
"Rather than relying on capsule technology, it would be better to have the Cavalry Governorate construct several more aetheric aircraft carriers. Use them alongside elite dragons and deploy large-scale [biocapsules]. Fran could then deliver a strategic blow comparable to the Orlitin Empire's iron torrent—no less," the captain suggested earnestly.
"That's the problem. Our Machine Soul technology isn't sufficient to build that many Ether Carriers. Furthermore, the recent destruction of the Iberian Armada has made the Governor's Office even more cautious in their development efforts."
Wordsworth wasn't optimistic about the captain's suggestion. The Governor's Office was currently rife with controversy over whether to build a large-scale Ether Fleet. As someone from the central government, he himself held a strong dislike for some of the Governors.
The destruction of the Iberian Armada and the downfall of the Star Terror had taught many the consequences of angering the Celestial Kingdom. Many veteran Transcendents in the Governor's Office felt that resources spent on developing something as expensive as the Ether Fleet would be better spent cultivating a few more high-end Thaumaturgists.
Furthermore, the Celestial Kingdom's strategic deterrence proved successful.
At least the resistance that had been brewing within the Central Alliance had faded after the destruction of the Armada, and everyone had returned to their old strategy of quietly making a killing.
"We are the first new force from Fran to travel to the New World. We're not only here to participate in the Ivy War, but also to expand our dragon research and development catalog."
Captain Rene Guinomer, after adjusting the dragon's parameters, turned slightly to face Wordsworth beside him.
A hint of professional seriousness crossed his face as he slowly asked:
"What did the central government say about the military alliance agreement proposed by the Fourth Sword-Bearer of Heaven and the Director of the Administration?"
As he spoke, he pulled up a genealogy pop-up window and handed a top-secret document to the old man.
--Invitation from the Administration to the Fran Cavalry for a Military Alliance--
From the Administration's Headquarters Secretariat.
[Date: January 10, 1591]
To the Leader and Members of the Fran Cavalry:
In these turbulent times, we face an unprecedented threat—the increasing activity of dragons and other draconic creatures poses a serious threat to Terra's territorial security and the lives of its people.
Against this backdrop, our Administration believes that only through a strong alliance can we effectively combat these common enemies.
Therefore, the Administration sincerely invites the Fran Cavalry to join our military alliance.
We believe that through our combined efforts, we can greatly enhance our ability to combat draconic creatures and bring peace and security to Terra.
We understand that such a decision requires thorough consideration and discussion.
Therefore, we look forward to meeting with you to further discuss the specifics of this proposal and answer any questions you may have.
Please allow us to express our deepest respect and hope that you will consider this invitation, which is of great significance to both sides.
We look forward to your positive response.
Regarding your regards,
Secretary General of the Administration.
[Director's Signature]: Hugh Abraham {Handwritten}.
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After hearing Captain René Guinomer's question, Wordsworth looked at the invitation before him, his brows raised slightly, a look of deep thought on his face.
He was silent for a moment, clearly aware that the question touched upon the complex diplomatic and strategic considerations they faced.
He then slowly replied, "This matter is of great importance. When the Central Government sent me, they stated that we needed to discuss it face to face. Cooperation can only be achieved with the approval of both the Governor's Office and the Central Government."
The Fourth Sword-Bearer of Heaven's proposed military alliance agreement not only involved immediate military cooperation but also potentially impacted Fran's long-term position and strategic layout in the New World.
Such a decision required more information, more thorough consideration, and direct dialogue between the Central Government and the Governor's Office.
After hearing Wordsworth's response, Captain Rene Guinomer said nothing further.
A tense atmosphere of unresolved issues hung in the air, and a brief silence fell between the two men.
This silence was not awkward, but rather a mutual understanding and respect for the importance of the upcoming discussion.
Boom boom boom—
Just then, a gentle vibration and noise from outside shattered the stillness of the room. It was the luxury cruise ship from Fran, finally arriving at anchor after its long journey.
The massive hull gently scraped against the dock's buffers, making an almost imperceptible sound before the cruise ship came to a complete stop.
Looking out the window at the East Coast harbor, the captain asked Wordsworth:
"Where is the meeting place arranged by the Fourth Sword-Bearer of Heaven?"
"A café in Hell's Kitchen. When we get there, someone will take us to meet him," Wordsworth replied calmly.
"What's the time?" Rene Guinomer asked.
"Two o'clock in the afternoon," Wordsworth replied.
"Then let's go now. I'm eager to see the legendary Heavenly Supernova, the dragon slayer who resolved the Fran Dragon Plague." The captain was filled with interest in his upcoming meeting.
"I did meet him once before in Monte Carlo," Wadsworth's face was filled with nostalgia. "I have a feeling he's one of the most wicked angels, but that's just my feeling. After all, I've only met him once, and most angels have extremely bad personalities and behaviors."
"Then we need to be more careful when interviewing this wicked angel," the captain replied gravely.
********
01:45 PM.
Hell's Kitchen, Ninth Avenue.
The sun slanted across the streets of Hell's Kitchen. It was no longer as gentle as it had been in the morning, but rather blazing.
However, in this busy area, the shadows cast by the tall buildings offered pedestrians some cool refuge. The streets seemed busier than usual, with people of all kinds hurrying by, their faces etched with the urgency of the afternoon.
A black sedan slowly drove down Ninth Avenue in Hell's Kitchen, weaving through the bustling streets of this unique neighborhood. As the vehicle moved, residents of various races could be seen gathering on the streets.
Sitting in the sedan, the captain and Wordsworth, now dressed in new clothes, surveyed the various alien races outside Hell's Kitchen.
"This is truly unexpected! I thought the alien areas under the Administration's control would be oppressive, with every alien race feeling insecure," Captain Rene commented. "It seems the Fourth Sword-Bearer of Heaven is much more open-minded than I imagined."
"Not only is he open-minded, but he also knows how to win over people and leverage resources. At this alliance meeting, he'll probably make an offer we can't refuse," Wordsworth said.
"What do you think he'll offer?" the captain asked.
Wordsworth shrugged. "I'm curious about that question, too. Although I represent the central government, the key to the Cavalry's cooperation with the Heavenly Kingdom Administration during the Ivy War lies in the opinions of those in the Governor's Office. Captain René, has your Gold Coast Governor given you any information?"
"Governor Antoine said it depends on the situation. He said that if he weren't responsible for controlling the Gold Coast, he'd actually like to see the legendary dragon slayer with his own eyes," Captain René replied.
"That can't be helped. The Fran army cannot do without the control of the Governors," Wordsworth said in a tone that was unclear whether it was mocking or joking.
Captain René didn't react to this. The Fran central government and the Governor's Office have always had a fraught relationship.
Fran's dragons are generally found in special hubs within the territory. After the Hundred Years' Dragon Slaying War, most high-ranking members of the [Cavalry] lineage were appointed Governors.
The Governor-General is the highest local administrator, responsible for the administrative, legislative, and judicial powers of a Dragon military hub, province, or specific region, including military command.
The Governor-General is dispatched to various Dragon military bases as the highest representative of the Fran government, responsible for managing the political, economic, and military affairs of the lands where the Fran lineage rests.
The Governor-General's Palace generally refers to the Governor-General's residence, but in Wordsworth's words, the Governor-General's Palace is the highest center of transcendental power in the Frans.
The Frans' central government is the nominal center of power, while the Governor-General is responsible for representing the interests of the mother country and managing the political, economic, and military affairs of the Dragon bases.
However, because Frans' transcendental military power is excessively dispersed within the Governor-General's Palace, the true center of power in the Frans lies in the hands of the Governor-General of the Governor-General's Palace. Since ancient times, the gun has always commanded the government, not the government commanding the gun.
Although the Frans central government has consistently attempted to strengthen central authority and reclaim the Dragon bases from the Governor-General's Palace to achieve centralization, the Governor-General controls the majority of Frans' Dragon Battalions.
René is affiliated with the Golden Coast Squadron, 8th Battalion of the French Aerospace Forces' Dragon Cavalry. The Golden Coast here refers to a hub in France called the Golden Coast, which is home to extraordinary military facilities such as surface-to-air dragon weapons, steam-interactive spinal fluid, and [Wind-Breaking Special Dragons].
The hub's most prominent feature is the [Wind-Breaking Special Dragon]. While this type of dragon is difficult to breed and its maintenance is astronomical, its inherent biological properties are exceptional, and the probability of evolving into an elite dragon comparable to a [Dominator] is as high as 12.78%.
When the ensemble erupted, all [Wind-Breaking Special Dragons] and other high-quality dragons were ordered by the Governor's Office to slumber on the spot.
At the time, the Fran central government repeatedly requested the Governor's Office to deploy local defense forces, but to no avail. The Governor's Office had already placed the highly elite dragons in slumber, naturally disregarding orders.
When the dragon disaster erupted, the Fourth Sword Bearer of Heaven stepped in to slay the dragons, defending Fran from the Red King's mischief, easing the conflict between the Fran central government and the Governors, and incidentally killing Alice, who possessed both mischief and provocation.
Otherwise, given the behavior of the Governor's Office, even without Alice and the others provoking them, war between the Governor's Office and the Fran Central Government would have broken out after the dragon plague ended.
The dragon plague unleashed by [Fafnir] wouldn't actually plunge Fran into an irretrievable state; it was merely the trigger. The true dragon plague was the irreconcilable conflict between the Governor's Office and the central government, and the people behind both.