Hasako
On February 3rd, 2204 ATE, Emperor Hariko Lee stood before a vast assembly of his people, broadcast across the multiverse from the grand capital of the Imperial Empire. The towering spires of his citadel glinted under the twin suns of this alternate Earth, a testament to his power and the loyalty of his followers. The crowd stretched as far as the eye could see, their eyes fixed on the podium where their leader, a man of unparalleled conviction, prepared to speak.
Hariko’s voice, calm yet resonant, carried through the air, amplified by the advanced technologies of the Imperial Empire.
“My people, citizens of the Imperial Empire and beyond,” he began, his tone a mixture of resolve and caution. “Throughout history, civilizations have risen and fallen, not by external conquest alone, but by the corrosion within their own walls. Today, I address you not just as your Emperor, but as a student of history, a guardian of its lessons, and a voice of warning.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping across the sea of faces before him.
“Let us remember the birth of what was once called the United States of America. Their independence was born of defiance—a people’s cry against a ruling government that refused to listen to their desires. The elites of their time defended those who lobbied for heavier taxes, restrictions on freedom, and the tightening grip of control over individual rights. The people’s voices were drowned out by the noise of greed, corruption, and the entitlement of the powerful. And so, they rose. The Revolution was not just a fight for independence; it was a decration that governance without representation is tyranny.”
The crowd murmured in agreement, and Hariko’s voice grew more commanding.
“Yet, here we stand, in an era where history dares to repeat itself. Across countless nations, systems designed to serve the people now serve only the elite. The desires of the majority are ignored, their voices silenced by a privileged few who control the levers of power. Policies are crafted not for the welfare of the many, but for the preservation of the few. Lobbyists—agents of greed—dictate the future while the average citizen is left with the scraps of decisions made in secret chambers.”
Hariko clenched his fist, his passion evident.
“I say this to every leader who has forgotten their purpose: when the citizens of a nation are silenced, when their cries for justice and fairness are ignored, rebellion becomes inevitable. It is not the people who choose chaos; it is the state that invites it by failing its most basic duty: to listen. And so, I issue this warning—not as a threat, but as a prediction.
“If governments continue down this path, if they defend the interests of the elite while trampling on the rights of the many, history will repeat itself. Revolution will not just be a possibility—it will be a certainty. For the more citizens grow sick of these actions, the more they will rise. If they cannot find justice within the system, they will create justice outside of it.”
The crowd erupted in appuse, a wave of approval surging through the masses. Hariko’s voice, unshaken, continued to ring out.
“As your Emperor, I vow to never let this fate befall the Imperial Empire. Here, every voice matters. Here, the government is a servant of the people, not their master. But this message is not for us alone. To every nation, every faction, every leader who dares to ignore their citizens’ cries: take heed. For revolution is not a relic of the past—it is the consequence of the present. And those who fail to learn this lesson will face the same fate as those who fell before them.”
He stepped back from the podium, his words hanging in the air like a storm about to break. The crowd roared its approval, their cheers echoing across the ndscape. In that moment, Hariko Lee had not just issued a warning; he had solidified his pce as a leader who understood the pulse of his people, a leader who would not let history’s mistakes define their future.
For the Imperial Empire, and perhaps the multiverse itself, his words would be remembered—a rallying cry for justice, a decration of vigince, and a promise of resistance against tyranny.
Emperor Hariko Lee, a visionary leader known for his transformative policies and a fervent advocate for innovation, had long contempted a way to uplift creative minds across the Imperial Empire and beyond. As the bustling capital city brimmed with artists, writers, and dreamers eager to bring their stories to life, Hariko realized the need for a revolutionary ptform that would ensure fairness, integrity, and prosperity for creators. Thus, the Original Art Funding Program (OAFP) was born.
Founding PrinciplesThe foundation of the OAFP was built upon three core principles:
Empowerment of Creators: Every artist deserved the opportunity to showcase their unique vision without fear of exploitation.
Community Ownership: Local communities should have a stake in the success of the art they supported.
Ethical Colboration: All partnerships must align with the creator’s vision and uphold moral integrity.
Hariko’s vision was to create a ptform that would not only fund original projects but also protect creators from predatory practices while ensuring that their work remained uniquely theirs.
Structure of the ProgramThe OAFP allowed creators to list their original work—be it a manga, comic series, or any form of art—on the ptform. Once listed, creators had three funding options:
Community Donations: Creators could open their projects to donations from individuals within their local community. Contributors would receive a share in the project’s success, fostering a sense of communal investment and pride.
Corporate Sponsorship: Companies could donate to a creator’s project, but this option came with a bold, unmistakable warning: “Corporate goals and values may csh with your creative vision.” Creators were urged to carefully consider the ethical implications before accepting such funds.
Government Funding: The Imperial Empire’s government, under Hariko’s directive, would provide up to 60% of the funding for selected projects. In return, the government would retain a 60% stake in the original series, ensuring creators had ample resources to bring their visions to life while the government secured revenue streams from successful projects.
Safeguarding OriginalityCentral to the OAFP was its rigorous protection of intellectual property. It was strictly illegal for anyone to exploit or reproduce a creator’s work without their explicit permission. The ptform itself functioned as a digital vault, showcasing projects while safeguarding their integrity. Creators who joined the program retained full creative control and could decide how their work was shared or monetized.
The LaunchHariko personally announced the unch of the OAFP at the Imperial Hall, addressing an audience of artists, government officials, and citizens.
“Today, we unveil a program that will change the way we think about art and its value in society. The Original Art Funding Program is more than a ptform; it is a movement. It ensures that every creator, no matter their background, can see their vision come to life. Together, we will cultivate a world where art is protected, creators are empowered, and communities thrive.”
The announcement was met with resounding appuse. The ptform’s sleek design, featuring vibrant showcases of listed projects, immediately attracted creators eager to join.
A Case Study: Rising StarsOne of the first projects funded through the OAFP was a manga series titled "Bdes of the Eternal Sakura," by a young artist named Yuki Hanamura. Yuki chose the community donation model, and her project quickly gained traction, amassing thousands of small contributions from supporters in her local area.
The success of her series not only brought her financial stability but also reinvigorated her community, inspiring others to pursue their creative dreams. Her work was ter dispyed as a shining example of the program’s potential, sparking a wave of new submissions.
Challenges and GrowthAs the OAFP grew, challenges emerged. Some creators struggled with the ethical dilemmas posed by corporate sponsorships. Others debated whether government funding’s 60% ownership stake was too steep a price for their creative freedom. Hariko addressed these concerns directly, ensuring that the ptform’s policies were continually refined to reflect the needs and values of its users.
A New Era for ArtThe Original Art Funding Program became a cornerstone of Hariko’s legacy, transforming the Imperial Empire into a hub of creativity and innovation. By fostering an environment where original art could flourish, Hariko not only empowered creators but also united communities and strengthened the cultural fabric of the empire.
The ptform’s tagline, "Your Vision, Our Future," echoed across the nd, a testament to Hariko Lee’s enduring belief in the power of originality and colboration.
The Genesis of the Angelic Workforce
In the heart of the Imperial Empire, Anna Bke's ambition knew no bounds. A visionary and brilliant strategist, she had been entrusted with the task of creating a force powerful enough to secure the Empire's dominance across the gaxy. To accomplish this, she needed an army that could not only fight but also serve as the backbone of the Empire's industrial might. The answer was clear: the Artificial Angel Factories—mass-production facilities designed to create angels, both warriors and workers, from the finest materials the Empire had to offer.
The Steel Angels: The Foundation of the ArmyThe first creation to emerge from the factories was the Steel Angels—mechanized soldiers born every minute, their bodies forged from the finest steel the Empire could provide. These angels were designed for combat, crafted to be indestructible and to serve as the elite guardians of the Empire's gates. As each angel was formed, they became part of the Fortress Gaxy, an enormous space-faring stronghold that housed the mass-produced legions. The angels, once activated, were integrated directly into the Gate Guard Fleet, tasked with defending the borders of the Empire’s gaxy and ensuring no foreign threats could breach their gates.
Each angel was designed for perfection, with a singur focus: to protect the Empire. Their minds were hardwired for military efficiency, and their strength was enhanced with every new iteration. Anna Bke’s strategy was clear—these angels would be the spearhead of the Empire’s defenses, the first line of offense and protection across the cosmos.
The Space Port Producers: Angels for IndustryWhile the Steel Angels formed the backbone of the Empire’s military might, Anna knew that their purpose could extend beyond mere combat. She envisioned a far-reaching network of Space Port Producers, angels specifically designed to maintain and manage the Empire's vast fleet of space ports. Tasked with keeping the immense infrastructure of the Imperial space network running smoothly, these angels were essential to maintaining the logistical backbone of the Empire's military operations.
Anna assigned 10% of the Steel Angels to this purpose. Their mechanical precision and tireless work ethic made them ideal candidates for this job. These angels were stationed at key space ports throughout the Empire, overseeing repairs, construction, and the efficient flow of supplies and personnel. Their role was vital, ensuring that the Empire's fleet could operate without disruption. With the rise of the Space Port Producers, the logistical might of the Imperial Empire was solidified.
Uranium Angels: Workers of the ShipyardsAs the needs of the Empire grew, Anna realized that a new css of angels would be required—angels who could endure the most grueling industrial bor. She turned to the surplus uranium stockpiled within the Imperial Empire, leftovers from Hariko Lee's various military and industrial projects. The result was the creation of Uranium Angels—beings whose bodies were crafted from the very material that had once been deemed waste.
These Uranium Angels were designed for work in the Empire's massive Spaceship Factories, where they toiled day and night to construct the test and most advanced warships and intergactic vessels. Their uranium bodies made them resistant to radiation, heat, and extreme conditions, allowing them to function in environments where organic beings would perish. The Uranium Angels were the bor force that kept the Empire's shipyards running at full capacity, providing the Imperial Navy with the ships it needed to project power across the stars.
Sunray Angels: The Standard InfantryWhile the Steel Angels and Uranium Angels had their pces as soldiers and workers, Anna Bke also needed a standard infantry—angels who could fight across a variety of terrains and battlespaces. This need was fulfilled with the creation of the Sunray Angels. Unlike their steel counterparts, these angels were made from pure light and sor energy, capable of harnessing the power of the sun itself.
These Sunray Angels became the standard infantry for the Empire. Fast, agile, and deadly, they were capable of maneuvering across any battlefield with incredible speed, striking with ser-like precision. Their light-based abilities made them powerful in combat, while their sor energy bodies allowed them to heal quickly and fight relentlessly. The Sunray Angels were the heart of the Empire's ground forces, deployed in every major conflict as the primary soldiers in the war for Imperial dominance.
Expansion of the Angelic SectorAs the Angelic Forces grew in number, Archangel Eve, one of Anna Bke's most trusted commanders, took charge of expanding the domain of the angels. The Angel Sector, once confined to a single gaxy, began to stretch its borders. Eve led a campaign of expansion, seizing uncharted space and establishing new territories under angelic control. Her efforts were a resounding success, and soon the Angelic Sector expanded by one additional gaxy, vastly increasing the number of angels under her command.
When Eve returned to Anna Bke, she reported, “In another 200 years, we will expand further. I will create another gaxy, a cradle for the angels. This will be our home, and it will be the shining jewel of the Imperial Empire.”
Anna, ever the strategic leader, nodded in approval. She knew that the gaxy Eve envisioned would be crucial for the Empire's long-term success. A gaxy dedicated entirely to the angelic race would provide a center of power, industry, and culture—a pce where the angels could thrive and continue to build the Empire's future.
The Creation of Angel CiviliansBut Anna Bke was not content with just expanding the military might of the Empire. She saw the potential for the angels to serve more than just as soldiers or workers. With the new gaxy now in her control, she began to use the leftovers and what most would consider useless materials across the Imperial Empire—scrap, waste, and detritus from military and industrial operations—to mass-produce a new css of angels: the Angel Civilians.
These civilian angels were not warriors. They were the everyday workers of the Empire—engineers, teachers, scientists, farmers, and even doctors. Using the detritus from Imperial factories, Anna Bke turned what was once considered useless into new life. The Angel Civilians became the lifeblood of the new gaxy, building homes, farms, research facilities, and universities to support the Empire’s growing popution.
With the mass production of these civilian angels, the Empire’s new gaxy quickly became a bustling hub of civilization, complete with a thriving economy and cultural institutions. Angel civilians worked side by side with their warrior counterparts, their efforts contributing to the ongoing prosperity of the Imperial Empire.
The New OrderAnna Bke's ambitious pn had come to fruition. From the Artificial Angel Factories, she had created a new race of beings—angels of steel, uranium, sunrays, and light—who served in every aspect of Imperial life, from the military to the workforce to civilian sectors. Under her leadership, the Angel Sector had expanded, becoming a symbol of the Empire’s power and innovation.
The artificial angels were no longer just soldiers. They were a living, breathing testament to the Empire’s progress, a force that would reshape the future of the gaxy and beyond.
And Anna Bke, the mastermind behind it all, knew that this was just the beginning. With the gaxy expanding and the Angel Sector growing stronger, the Imperial Empire was destined for an era of unparalleled prosperity—guided by the unyielding force of the angels she had created.
Hariko Lee, the emperor of the Imperial Empire, understood that a society’s strength came not only from its military might but also from its internal structures. To maintain order and incentivize loyalty, he created a groundbreaking initiative—the Imperial Merit System—designed to reward individuals based on their contributions to the Empire. This system would change the way power was distributed, forging a bond between the citizens and the government, while also allowing for a flourishing economy based on merit and effort.
The Foundation of the Imperial Merit SystemThe Imperial Merit System was designed to recognize the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices of individuals who went above and beyond for the Empire. Each citizen could earn Merit Points through various activities that benefited the local poputions and the greater Empire. These points became a currency that could be exchanged for a variety of rewards, from material wealth to significant political influence.
Protection of Locals was one of the primary means of earning Merit Points. This simple but essential act involved defending local communities from external threats, whether they were bandits, invaders, or other forms of unrest. By contributing to the well-being and safety of the Empire’s citizens, one could earn 5 Merit Points for every successful protection operation completed. These points became a currency in their own right, allowing citizens to accumute value through their acts of service.
For every 5 Merit Points, individuals could exchange them for 5,000 Martian Copper Coins, a form of currency that could be used for a wide range of everyday needs within the Empire. These coins could be spent on everything from food and clothing to minor tools and equipment necessary for life in the Empire’s expanding territories.
The Imperial Exchange SystemHowever, the Imperial Merit System was not limited to just local services. To facilitate the movement of wealth and resources, Hariko Lee established a centralized trading hub known as ImperialExchange.gov.com. This online system allowed individuals to exchange their earned Martian Copper Coins for higher forms of currency, creating a fluid economy that encouraged trade and investment within the Empire.
Martian Copper Coins: These were the most basic form of currency, used for everyday transactions. They were easy to earn and could be obtained by performing small but essential tasks. A 100,000 Martian Copper Coins could be exchanged for 1 Martian Silver Coin, which represented a higher level of wealth and could be used to purchase more expensive items and services.
Martian Silver Coins: These coins were considered mid-tier currency. They could be traded for rger quantities of goods or be saved to accumute wealth for major investments. A 1,000 Martian Silver Coins could be exchanged for 10 Martian Coins, a highly valuable form of currency within the Empire.
Martian Coins: This was the premier currency within the Imperial Empire. The elite and influential members of society used Martian Coins to conduct rge-scale business transactions, pay for services, and even engage in political dealings. A 1,000,000 Martian Coins could be exchanged for 10 Martian Gold Coins, which were the rarest and most prestigious form of currency in the Empire.
The system was designed to allow any individual, from the lowest common worker to the highest political figure, to trade and move between different levels of currency based on their efforts and the value they brought to the Empire.
Unlocking Power with Merit PointsThe Imperial Merit System offered far more than just monetary rewards. It also provided individuals with a path to influence and power within the Empire. The system allowed citizens to exchange their Merit Points for more significant opportunities, enabling them to shape the future of the Empire.
Creating a Cn: A person who had accumuted 100 Merit Points could use them to form their own Cn, an independent faction that could challenge other cns or serve as a beacon of power and authority. Establishing a cn meant gaining control over territories, access to resources, and the ability to recruit and organize individuals under one banner.
Purchasing a Pnet: For those who had truly proven their worth to the Empire, 10,000 Merit Points could be exchanged for the right to own a pnet. This reward granted the individual control over an entire world, where they could establish colonies, industries, or military bases, effectively becoming a ruler within the Empire’s vast gactic reach.
Bcklist Power: The ability to control who could approach your space was also a reward within the Imperial Merit System. For 70,000 Merit Points, an individual could Bcklist a cn, person, or faction from approaching within 70,000 meters of their own person or territory. This powerful ability allowed one to safeguard their personal interests and territories, ensuring their safety and influence. However, Hariko Lee, ever the strict ruler, decreed that abusing this power—especially for petty revenge—would result in 12 years in prison. It was a harsh penalty, but one that ensured the system was used judiciously, keeping power in the hands of those who used it responsibly.
The Impact on SocietyAs the Imperial Merit System took root, it transformed the way the Empire operated. Citizens no longer had to rely solely on wealth inherited through bloodlines or ruthless power struggles. They could now climb the ranks based on their merit and contributions to society. Whether they were soldiers protecting their communities, workers producing essential goods, or political leaders forging alliances, every individual had a chance to rise through the ranks based on their efforts and dedication.
This system also led to the rapid expansion of the Empire. With individuals able to form cns, acquire pnets, and exert influence over regions, the Empire’s boundaries grew ever rger. The competition among cns to earn Merit Points and rise through the ranks became fierce, leading to a highly efficient but competitive environment where innovation and progress were celebrated.
Challenges and RisksDespite its success, the Imperial Merit System also created new challenges. As more and more individuals sought to accumute Merit Points, some began to find ways to exploit the system. Bck market exchanges, fraudulent activities, and attempts to manipute the currency system started to emerge. To combat these threats, Hariko Lee strengthened the Empire's w enforcement and intelligence operations, ensuring that the integrity of the Imperial Merit System remained intact.
Additionally, with the growing power of cns and individuals within the Empire, tensions began to rise. Some factions, feeling threatened by the influence of others, began plotting against their rivals, leading to political intrigue and conspiracies. Hariko Lee, ever watchful, made it clear that anyone attempting to destabilize the Empire would face swift retribution.
The Future of the Imperial Merit SystemThe Imperial Merit System stood as one of Hariko Lee’s crowning achievements. It id the foundation for a new era in which merit and contribution determined one’s status, rather than birthright or brute force. The Empire’s economy flourished, the military grew stronger, and the political ndscape evolved as cns and individuals vied for power.
But for Hariko Lee, this was only the beginning. As the Empire expanded and new technologies emerged, he envisioned a future where the Imperial Merit System could be adapted to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing universe. Whether through new forms of currency or the creation of even more powerful incentives, Hariko Lee's commitment to the Imperial Merit System would continue to shape the future of his Empire for generations to come.
The rise of the Artificial Angels, created by Anna Bke in the depths of her factory fortress, was meant to usher in an era of order and unity under the Imperial Empire. Their creation, birthed from steel, uranium, and the raw power of the sun, had transformed them into an unstoppable force. These angels, with their shining metallic forms and immense strength, served Anna Bke’s will with brutal precision. They were not just protectors; they were enforcers of Hariko Lee’s vision, tasked with cleansing the Empire of corruption and chaos.
However, as the Imperial Merit System grew and the power of cns expanded, something insidious began to fester in the Empire's shadows. The bck markets flourished, and some of the most powerful cns—those with unchecked influence and wealth—began to operate outside the w. They maniputed the system, hoarding resources, exploiting the weak, and subverting the Empire's authority for their own gain.
Hariko Lee, though powerful, could not easily extinguish these fmes of rebellion. That’s when Anna Bke, working in secret, forged a pn. She unleashed her Angels of Wrath onto those who dared challenge the Empire’s rule. The bck market traders and rogue cns would feel the full fury of the steel-winged enforcers, and none would escape the judgment of the angels.
The Fall of the Bck MarketsThe first strike came without warning. Across the Empire’s vast cities, trade routes, and hidden marketpces, the heavens seemed to burn with a fiery wrath. The Angels of Steel, their bodies forged from indestructible alloys, descended from their fortresses and struck without hesitation. They carried with them weapons of devastation—psma-infused swords, energy nces, and artillery cannons that could vaporize entire buildings with a single shot.
The bck market leaders, once safe in their wealth and power, were caught unawares. Whole networks of illegal trades, from the trafficking of rare metals to the illicit exchange of military technology, were torn asunder. Explosions filled the streets as the angels unched strikes on known bck market hubs. Energy bsts incinerated warehouses where stolen goods were stored, and the cries of those caught in the bsts echoed through the chaos. Explosions, bright and unrelenting, shattered the night sky, and the angels moved like a storm, ruthlessly cleansing the Empire of its corruption.
The leaders of the rogue cns, who had long hidden behind yers of wealth and influence, were no match for the angels. As the angels’ relentless assault continued, many were captured in the wake of these devastating raids. The prisoners of war—those who had dared to defy the will of Hariko Lee—were rounded up and sent to the dreaded Interdimensional Gates.
The Interdimensional Gate: Prisoners of WarThe Interdimensional Gate was a pce few ever returned from. It was a dimension outside time and space, a pce designed to break the most hardened of souls. Once a prisoner entered the gates, they were lost to their own fate, bound in a realm where the rules of reality were warped, and the ws of physics did not apply.
The captured criminals, including the leaders of bck market operations and the heads of rogue cns, were thrown into this unforgiving prison. But it was not just any prison—it was a battlefield.
Inside the Interdimensional Gate, the prisoners were forced to fight for their lives against a constant onsught of Interdimensional Gate Soldiers—a terrifying army of soldiers and beasts that constantly regenerated. The only goal was survival, but survival was near impossible.
Human prisoners, despite their ingenuity and strength, faced the harshest challenges. The interdimensional soldiers were strong and fast, and the environment itself was a twisted, shifting nightmare. The death rate was staggering; most humans could not st more than three hours in the chaos before succumbing to their wounds or the never-ending waves of enemies. It was a pce where time seemed to stretch and compress, and every moment felt like an eternity.
The Angelic FrontlinesWhile the prisoners fought in the Interdimensional Gate, the Angels of Wrath continued their campaign against the cns and bck markets. The angels, with their fwless coordination and near-immortal endurance, were not just tools of destruction—they were symbols of fear and obedience. They waged war on the frontlines, where entire cities and fortress-cities once controlled by rogue factions were annihited in mere hours. The streets were littered with the wreckage of cns that had dared to challenge the Imperial rule. The angels, once born of pure creation, had become the harbingers of imperial justice, sweeping away all opposition.
Each explosion that rocked the cities, each building that crumbled under the might of the angels’ assault, served as a reminder of the Empire’s absolute authority. There was no pce for rebellion; there was no room for disobedience. The bck markets were wiped out, their leaders shattered, and the corrupt cns were brought to their knees.
The battle was brutal, with casualties on both sides, but it was clear: the Imperial Empire would not tolerate dissent. Anyone who thought they could py the system, who believed they could subvert the order Hariko Lee had established, would meet the same fate—destruction, imprisonment, or annihition.
The Fate of the CnsFor the rogue cns that had not been completely eradicated, the angels continued to hunt them down. The bck market traders who survived the initial strikes were now on the run, forced to hide in the far reaches of the gaxy, knowing the angels would always be hunting them. The angels’ explosive strikes, targeting the heart of the cns’ operations, made it impossible for them to remain hidden for long.
However, as the angels’ presence grew, so too did their notoriety. The very sight of their shining steel forms in the distance sent shockwaves of terror through the surviving factions. Some cns, realizing the futility of resistance, began to scatter, turning on their own in a desperate bid to escape the inevitable. Some even chose to submit, offering whatever wealth and power they still held in exchange for protection.
But Anna Bke and the angels were unwavering. There was no mercy for those who had tried to tear apart the Empire Hariko Lee had built. The angelic war machine continued to function with perfect efficiency, and the cns that grew too powerful would fall.
The Consequences of CorruptionThe fall of the bck markets and the cleansing of the rogue cns marked a turning point in the Imperial Empire’s history. The Angels of Wrath, in their unyielding pursuit of order, had restored bance to the Empire—though at a great cost. The streets were no longer filled with the undercurrent of illegal trade, and the once-powerful cns had either been dismantled or subjugated. The economy began to stabilize under the rule of the Imperial Merit System, and Hariko Lee's vision of a united Empire seemed within reach.
But the lesson was clear to all: corruption and rebellion had no pce in the Empire. Those who defied the Emperor’s rule would face the wrath of the angels, and no amount of wealth or influence could save them. The Angels of Steel were an unrelenting force, and in their wake, they left only the ashes of those who dared to challenge the Imperial order.
The Empire, once again, was at peace—but the price of that peace was a hard and unforgiving justice. And in the quiet aftermath of the angelic wrath, the citizens of the Empire knew that, while the battle had been won, the struggle for true order was far from over.