RANACE REPUBLIC
Ranace is an isolated country located on the continent of North America, positioned in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. Originally established in 1597 as Pacific Isle, it underwent a name change to Ranace in 1792. By 1806, it had evolved into a republic, cementing its identity as a distinct and sovereign nation.
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AUTUMN, SEPTEMBER 2015
RANAHEIM
THE NOBLE CITADEL
The Noble Citadel, located in Ranaheim, the capital of Ranace, served as the official residence and workplace of the country’s president. This three-story building boasted a vintage architectural style, characterized by brick and stone walls. Surrounding it were manicured lawns and gardens, contributing to its overall charm and elegance. Internally, it featured a multitude of rooms and halls, each serving its unique purpose and significance.
In the president’s office, the red light of the small, round device on the desk blinked rapidly, catching President Bernard Dale’s attention. With a casual press of a button, a voice emanated from the transmitter, saying, “The next batch will arrive by tomorrow. Any problems there?”
President Dale chuckled as he reclined in his chair, exuding confidence. “Not at all. They are completely under my control. No one suspects a thing.”
“Good. I will inform the Queen of your exceptional management.”
“Please do, and feel free to embellish the details to leave a lasting impression.”
With those words, the call came to an end.
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 NORTH CALUM
VEILBREAKERS NEST
Nestled inconspicuously in a quiet, unassuming neighborhood, Veilbreakers Nest was disguised as a quaint, small house that effortlessly blended in with its surroundings. From the outside, it appeared like any other cozy residence, with a well-tended garden and a white picket fence. Inside, there was a spacious living area, bathed in warm, inviting light. The walls were adorned with art and landscape photographs.
In one of the bedrooms, specifically Grovan’s, there was a large painting concealing a hidden door that led to a staircase. This staircase led to the true heart of the hideout—the basement. The basement served as the central hub, featuring maps, evidence boards, a well-equipped armory, and a lounging area. A large table dominated the center, scattered with high-tech gadgets and surveillance equipment. There was also a small laboratory used by Cresson for his research and experiments. This was the sanctuary where the Veilbreakers meticulously devised their missions and prepared themselves for their daring endeavors. Their main goal was to uncover any malicious activities, with a particular focus on those involving authority figures such as the President of Ranace.
The formation of this group arose from their shared dissatisfaction with the government, particularly aimed at the Dales, who had held onto power since 1806. It served as a striking example of dynastic democracy reaching its zenith.
Listening intently to the sound emanating from a laptop, Keiro and Grovan eagerly awaited the next words of President Dale. Unbeknownst to him, there was a bug device hidden beneath his desk.
“Marcus, there will be a shipment tomorrow. Ensure that everything goes smoothly, especially at customs. They seem to be growing more arrogant with each passing day. Give them five hundred thousand haxes.”
“If I may suggest, sir. Why can’t we simply have Rinporter handle the shipment? Wouldn’t that be convenient for both parties involved?”
“No, I don’t trust a conjurer. Are you questioning my judgment?”
“Of course, you don’t trust a conjurer, and you don’t have to,” Grovan mused. “Rinporter was the one who planted that bug, and you don’t even have any idea.”
“No, sir. My apologies,” Marcus responded to the President.
Suddenly, there was a knock, and a female voice spoke up. “Excuse me, Mr. President. The cabinet meeting is scheduled in fifteen minutes.”
“Sure, I’ll be ready in five.”
Grovan scoffed, leaning back in his chair. “I suppose he truly has exceptional management skills. It’s no surprise considering he’s been the president of our country for over a decade.”
Huffing in disbelief, Keiro grumbled, “You seem quite impressed. But I think he’s an impostor.”
“Then that would be even more impressive,” Grovan said, chuckling.
Keiro shot him a glare. “I will intercept the shipment with Rin. Are you joining us?”
He shook his head. “No, I’m busy working on a new device requested by the Headmaster.”
“Oh, the one that is connected to Rin’s powers. . . . That would be incredibly helpful if you manage to create it.”
Grovan shrugged confidently. “Of course, I can. With Cres’s intellect and my gifted hands, nothing is impossible!”
Keiro laughed. “That, I agree with.”