Aiko Mizushima's Story

Also on board the carrier stood two other figures distanced from the Taiyou officers. Daisuke Nakamura and Aiko Mizushima, Losenji Generals of the Sky and Sea respectively, were present to witness their allies in action. Like the Volarians, they too had come with a show of force to accompany the exercise. Though their military was far less advanced than that of the Taiyou and Volarians, they did possess assets that neither did. Alongside the Avorian pilots soared the glimmering forms of Losenji Dragon Riders, casting flames of all colours down at the android infantry, along with the magical ordinance of their specially trained riders.

The Losenji Navy was largely absent from the battle, as were its airships, due to their relative primitiveness compared to their counterparts amongst their allies' forces. The Losenji forces present largely consisted of their magical support units, those that channeled the currents of the ocean and the movements of the sky to keep the weather and tides favourable for their allies, and those that would bring the wrath of the spirits to bear on their foes on land.

"It is more than time that we embraced the technology of our neighbours." Aiko noted as she watched the devastating barrage from the Taiyou ships released at the Trireme. "We have long desired to make our own progress, rather than be propped up by our allies, but it is foolish to not embrace the advancements they could grant us."

Daisuke gave the stern Admiral a sidelong glance. "Perhaps. Our magic would not stand against the technological superiority of the TNG were they to target us. The Empress seems more willing than her predecessor to listen to such counsel."

Aiko nodded. "She will need to be if we wish to remain relevant on the world stage."

"I think perhaps that is exactly what she does not wish," Daisuke noted, "As it stands, we are incredibly easy to overlook. If we join the arms race, then we become a threat."

"We cannot rely on being overlooked for the security of our nation, General."

"Of course."