Year 50

As you look at a large map of the known continent of Evigrus you realize that while its been fifteen years since you took the throne as Emperor you've already more than doubled the size of the original nation. You've also successfully managed to have your ships navigate most of its coastline as well. Even northern most Rask was mapped by your airships.

Quite frankly that's the main problem you have right now in general you've conquered most of what is worthwhile already on this continent. Anything remaining isn't exactly inhabitable or worth the time to spend on conquest and even in some of those cases, kobold citizens have slowly been making small underground communities in places where nobody above ground would want to live such as the Delerg jungle.

However there are always new lands to conquer.

To the farthest part west lies the only nation on Evigrus left besides the Empire, the Kingdom of Nakol. Nakol has had the benefit of being relatively isolated from the rest of the continent due to the great mountain range that blocked it from the Children of Tor. Your people have only recently had formal contact with it shortly after the defeat of the Torites, though even that was by ship, though now that the Torites are no longer a true threat, small passes through the mountains have been found (Though they're not exactly safe and Nakol certainly keeps their side very well guarded).

The nation isn't quite as large as the Empire, but its still bigger than the old Felkan Kingdom and certainly big enough to defend itself to make aggression very costly, so far however the limited contact you've had with said nation hasn't been hostile. Oddly enough he's wanted to meet you as he has heard so much about the "Great Emperor of the East" and very much wants to visit the Empire.

Normally you probably wouldn't consider such diplomatic meetings as it has never been your style, however this ruler is also known as the "Immortal Sorcerer King" and that is something that has gotten your attention.

In any event, there are other matters that require your attention and this is where the "other land" to conquer comes in…

Last year your ships finally found a large landmass to the east. Up until then, only a few islands of little worth had been discovered. This new territory from what you've been told is similar to Delerg in some ways as there are large portions of jungle. However there are several primitive civilizations living on this land mass. While they are similar to humans in some ways, they have features that certainly aren't such as having four arms and multiple sets of eyes like an insect. Even their language is a bit insect like as you've been told it's more a "chittering" sound. The most prominent of these groups are known as the Iznac.

The Iznac like most that seem to inhabit this world before the Empire enlightens them are a superstitious lot that worship their backwards gods by sacrificing others to them. Sometimes this is their own people, but most of the time its captives of the weaker tribes that live on the same continent. Barbarians they may be, they have built cities where their temples seem to be the biggest and most important buildings in them. It would appear they are a theocracy.

The Iznac so far have been actively hostile towards your people though perhaps wise enough not to attack them outright. Your own people have not made much progress towards the inner part of the new continent due to this fact and they don't have enough manpower to do so anyway. The only thing they can do is hold up in the newly built outpost and hope they aren't attacked by an overwhelming number of Iznac (or any other tribe since it isn't as if the frog like people called the Glip that also inhabit the continent are any friendlier)

You might be inclined to leave this new continent and its inhabitants alone until you can focus more attention on them, however it's also been reported that the continent has a seriously unexploited resource potential of valuable minerals and that's something you could always use more of especially if you're going to have to fund another war with Nakol in the near future.

There is also the matter of the orc and kobold population to think about. Both are becoming a problem. The orcs have finally increased their numbers to a point where they can become a viable fighting unit like they were in old days. In fact you planned for that to happen anyway. What you didn't plan for is that you'd have a period of peace with no major wars to fight! Reports of increased orc criminals or just general chaotic misconduct in Rask are becoming more common. You need to start giving them something to go fight.

The kobolds aren't so much of a problem as they tend to live underground and generally stay out of the way due to that fact. But with no war to whittle down their numbers they're breeding at a rate that's starting to worry your human subjects. You admit that with as many as the little bastards around they could become a serious threat if they ever became rebellious. Fortunately they're actually less of a problem than any of your other subjects so you're actually not worried about them yet.

Still, it seems like a logical solution to start sending large portions of both populations to tame this new continent. Of course if events dictate that you need to war with Nakol soon, then that leaves you with less soldiers on the home front and you're also fighting a two front war.

There's also another factor to consider that the new Eternals will be ready next year. Brenda's training has ensured that most of them survived and they are already displaying the eagerness to serve the Empire. Elam's also been working with the gnomes to perfect the automatons.

You make your decision that with these other factors in play that you're relatively safe in sending your orcs and kobolds to this new continent. However, you're going to need disciplined leaders though for this task.

For the orcs you look for the highest ranked and most respected by his people. The only name that catches your attention when looking through the records is Flog. Flog apparently served most of his military career in Rask fighting ogres, giants and the old barbarian tribes even during the Felkan War. He also served under Kane and was spoken highly of in a few old reports. Kane mentioned that besides Captain Gruz he never encountered an orc almost as intelligent. Apparently he's been doing a lot of breeding after the Felkan War. He has many children.

As for kobolds, the records are much sketchier. Kobolds may be loyal and contributing members of Empire society, but none of them really seem to stand out much and if they do, they all died in battle. Plus due to their numbers they probably have many of their kind that could be considered "leaders" within various circles. Eventually you settle on one that distinguished herself during the Tor War. Snilkez'ka managed to take out a manticore all by herself and lead a successful underground sneak attack against a band of minotaurs with only a few casualties. Given the size difference in both cases not to mention that even human officers had problems accomplishing such things, its safe to say that she comes the closest to being a hero among her people. In fact you're wondering why she was never brought to your attention before.

Of course you can't just send these two races out on ships to a new continent, which you barely have any control over so you're going to need at least one company of "normal" humans to keep a semblance of order or rather someone better than a human.

The only choice would be Decena. She's a well-respected leader by all and more than proven herself. While not having Decena immediately available here will be something you'll have to compensate for, you'll at least have confidence that she'll keep things orderly on this new continent.

Having made your decision you meet up with the three to explain the situation, their reactions are varied.

"Flog will serve all powerful Emperor, but not fooled by intentions. You trying to get rid of orcs again, just like in Felkan War." Flog says.
"Flog if I was trying to get rid of the orcs, I'd just have you all strung up and be done with it. I'm sure you're aware that's within my power to do so. I'm not even sending all of the orcs anyway, just most of them. I need tough soldiers that can withstand this harsher continent and its equally harsh inhabitants. I already sent humans and you see how well that worked out. Quite frankly I think your people would be best suited for this type of thing. You get to prove just how orcly you actually are. You are an orc aren't you? Are you not looking forward to the possibility of killing several enemies or dying in a glorious battle?" you say.
"Killing enemies yes, dying not so much. It is a misconception that orcs deliberately seek death in battle. Flog however is getting old, so death is close anyway. Either death in battle, death by children who will inevitably challenge Flog, or death by old age. The last is the least preferable, so perhaps this will be an opportunity. Not sure about the little scaly runts you're sending. Never fought along side them before, but Flog has heard of their great viciousness in battle. Also heard many glorious things of General Decena and her many victories. Will be an honor to fight along side her."

At this point the kobold leader, Snilkez'ka makes a small hissing growl like sound at Flog, probably due to his runt comment.

"Don't worry about us orc. Small we may be, but we'll be here long after the enemy has already butchered your old greenskin ass." Snilkez'ka remarks, which causes a chuckle from Flog who merely states that perhaps he'll enjoy fighting alongside her people after all.

Snilkez'ka doesn't look as amused, but says nothing else other than to directly address you and say that she will make sure that she will bring the fear of the Empire into the hearts of the enemy. You nod and say you know that she will. Always nice to have loyalty and enthusiasm. She's very well spoken for a kobold.

The latter one of those traits seems to be lost on your last leader, Decena who isn't saying anything and only succeeds in looking slightly troubled by her new assignment.

"Decena, is there anything you'd like to say? You're going to be in charge of this campaign." You ask.
"No. Nothing except I look forward to leading the Empire into victory and claiming this new continent in your name, my Emperor."

That sounded very… formal. Granted that's a good thing, especially in front of the other two leaders to keep it professional. Still, you know something is wrong and you know it has something to do with your past relationship. If you were the cautious sort you'd just leave it be, but if something is going to be a major problem you need to know now.

"Good, you'll all be shipping out in about a week. Everyone is dismissed, though I want to speak to you Decena about something." You say calmly and wait for the other two leave.

Now it's just you and Decena alone in the room. This hasn't occurred in years, and this situation is very different. Decena however maintains a very formal stance and does not falter from it.

"I sense something is wrong." You say.
"There is nothing wrong my Emperor." Decena remarks.
"Okay stop with the stiff soldier act, it's just us here."

This remark breaks Decena's facade of being "okay."

"I don't understand what you want from me my Emperor. You told me we were to remain just subordinate and master. I am carrying out this order to the best of my abilities."
"Oh no, do not attempt to play word games, you know what I mean. You're obviously upset about this assignment."
"…I'm obeying orders aren't I? Isn't that all that is required of me?" Decena says with an exasperated tone.
"For you? No. I need you to do more than just obey, I need you to be thrilled with this assignment. Like you USED to be. Remember?"
"Apologies, but I don't think I can given the situation."
"What situation? Us? Look Decena I know you're still upset about that, but you're going to have to be an Eternal and get over it."
"Oh yes, I'm an Eternal alright, at least until next year. Might as well sweep me away to a far off land now and be done with it." Decena remarks.
"What are you talking about?"
"I'm talking about the new Eternals that are scheduled to be ready next year! They'll be the new thing and I'll just be old news off in some forsaken land surrounded by scalies and green skinned idiots. In the meantime perhaps you'll even find another young girl like I was and take her under your guidance too…"
"Decena…"
"Well I suppose at least she'll be happy for a few years even if she'll be a naïve fool the entire time."

"Decena STOP! Just stop right now!" you say.

Decena does so, but her eyes say it all. You knew she was probably going to be upset for a while, but it's turned into bitterness.

You pace a bit and exhale rubbing your hand over your face.

"Decena, your beliefs that you're going to be somehow replaced next year are far from the truth. First of all, I'm not giving any of them any extra training because obviously I'm a lousy teacher given what happened between us."

Decena stays silent.

"Second of all I picked you for this mission because you're the only one I trust to carry it out. Just like I trusted you to continue your battles against the Torites and you saw to their practical extinction. I know you can get this job done and you're not going to be over there forever you know. I anticipate war with the Nakol Kingdom at some point and when that happens who do you think is going to have to lead all the baby eternals into battle? You of course. For now though I need you where you're going to be the most invaluable and that's in this new land."

You reach out to Decena and lift her face up to look into her eyes.

"I need you for this just like I'm always going to need you. You will never be replaced."

Decena's expression turns back to one of sorrow. Her eyes water, but she does not cry out.

"I…I'm sorry my Emperor…I shouldn't…have…"
"Forget it Decena you don't need to apologize. (Sigh) If anything I should be apologizing to you. As I said, I still feel you're the best person for this mission, but if you wish, you may decline this mission and I will find someone else. And there is no need to worry, this will not be a bad reflection on you in any way. If it's going to make you happier to stay here, then I'd rather you be happy since it'll make you a better leader. Won't do anyone any good if you don't have the best mindset."

Decena shakes her head.

"No, I'll go. For the good of the Empire I'll go. Staying here would serve no purpose for what I really want is not to be no matter what the situation. I suppose I just overreacted. And you weren't a lousy teacher. Anyone would be lucky to learn under you. I was." Decena says.
"Yes, well as I said, nobody ever will again. You were my first and last pupil. You'll always be special in that regard. Now are you absolutely sure, you're going to be okay with this assignment?" you ask.
"I will my Emperor. And I will bring glory to the Empire." Decena remarks.
"Good. I knew you were strong enough to see this through and I know you'll do the Empire and me proud."

You end you comment with a small kiss to her cheek. It's only a shadow of what she really desires, but it'll be enough to get her through this.

After Decena leaves, you think about how you've permanently damaged that girl due to your poor judgment and lack of willpower all those years ago. You then think about how easy it is to convince her into anything due to that same lack of willpower years ago. She still worships and loves you and probably always will no matter what. Despite everything, your conditioning was successful.

By the end of the week your fleet to the new continent (you're calling it Nyttrus) is on its way to properly claim it for the Empire. You don't know how long the Iznac are going to be able to stand up against your forces, but hopefully if your people break them, the other tribes will fall in line.

You eternals United (Year 51)

Year 51

You stand with Brenda and Warrick in front of hundreds of third generation Eternals. The day has finally come. They're trained and ready for war. Whether that means they'll get sent to Nyttrus or sent to attack the Nakol Kingdom that still remains to be seen, but wherever it is, you're sure they'll be a formidable force.

You give a rousing speech that encourages and reinforces the sort of loyalty that has already been drummed into their heads since they were born. They probably don't need it, but words directly from their Emperor are never a bad thing.

"This is way things should be." Brenda says.
"What's that, Brenda?" Warrick asks.
"This. You, me, the Emperor and all these new Eternals standing together united as a single force. I can't wait to train the next generation." Brenda says.
"Well you'll definitely get that chance Brenda. As I've said before, you did an excellent job with these." You say.
"We Eternals are the true rulers and defenders of this great Empire. And while I hold nothing but repsect to our former Emperor, I have to say that I feel that YOU have already proven that Eternals are the future. (Sigh) If there were only more of us…"
"There will be eventually." Warrick says.
"Oh I know. I just wish Roldan was here to see this." Brenda says.
"Mm, he would've certainly approved. I think Kane would have too." Warrick remarks.
"Yes, to fallen siblings and to reunited ones who spent too long angry at one another." Brenda says and looks at Warrick. The pair of them hug for a moment.

You remain silent at their display of affection. Seemed almost unbelievable at one time, you're just glad they get along now.

With the new Eternals dispersing and on their way to their assignments, you just sort of start off into the distance until Warrick and Brenda cease their hugging to ask you what's going on with you.

"Is there something wrong my Emperor?"
"Oh, nothing really wrong. I was just thinking, not every Eternal is here in this grand unification. Decena's still over in Nyttrus." You say.
"Oh yes, that's correct. I can't believe I forgot about her." Warrick says.
"Yeah well, Decena's always felt like a bit of an outsider in some ways I think."
"What? That's silly." Brenda says.
"Is it? Think about it, there never were a bunch of us to begin with, but there are still three of us first ones. Then there are these third gens. Hundreds. And the fourth gens and beyond will probably be in the hundreds as well. But Decena? She's the only second gen left. All her siblings were killed. Most by a mad derro and a few of them even by me when I got tested against them."

Warrick and Brenda continue to listen.

"I dunno, I was just thinking of something she was worried about before I sent her to Nyttrus. Her concerns that she was somehow obsolete. Of course I explained that she wasn't, but still sometimes in her letters I detect a bit of lonesomeness in tone."
"Emperor, Decena was trained by you. I think she's probably the luckiest Eternal since…well since you got the chance to be trained by the former Emperor." Brenda remarks.

"Hrm. Yes, lucky." You say nearly snorting at both of those conclusions. Brenda and Warrick still don't know the whole story and you hope for their sake they never have to learn the truth.

"Well I have to go attend to a rather mundane matter that I can't just assign to Kivan. I trust you both can handle the rest of the matters here?"
"Of course, my Emperor." Warrick says.

You nod at Brenda and Warrick and return to your private quarters in the palace. You sit down at your desk and spend the rest of the night writing an encouraging letter to have sent to Decena in Nyttrus.

Maybe she couldn't be here for the "Eternal unification" but you still want her to know that in your eyes she is the most cherished of all of them.