Aboard the USS Arathia.
The vast Pacific stretched endlessly in every direction, the deep blue waters shimring under the winter sun. The USS Arathia, the pride of the Arathian Navy, cut through the waves with quiet, unrelenting power. Behind it, the Pacific Fleet sailed in formation—an unmistakable display of strength and diplomacy.
Matthew Hesh stood on the deck, the sea breeze ruffling his coat as he gazed at the horizon. The journey to Japan had been long—nearly a month at sea—but necessary. The Empire of Japan was preparing for a historic transition. Emperor iji, who had led Japan through decades of modernization, was stepping down due to failing health. His son, Crown Prince Yoshihito, would soon ascend the throne.
It was a mont of great significance, not just for Japan but for the world. And Arathia needed to be there.
Matthew knew this visit wasn’t just about ceremony—it was about securing Arathia’s influence in the Pacific. With the remnants of The Order still lurking in the shadows, he needed allies. Strong ones.
Behind him, a small voice broke the silence.
"Daddy, are we there yet?"
Matthew turned to see Maverick standing beside him, his small hands gripping the railing as he squinted at the endless ocean.
"Not yet, buddy," Matthew said with a smile. "We still have a few days to go."
Maverick groaned. "It’s taking forever."
Matthew chuckled. "That’s because Japan is very far away. But once we get there, you’re going to see sothing amazing."
Maverick’s eyes lit up. "Like what?"
"Samurai," Matthew said, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Real ones."
Maverick gasped. "No way!"
Amber approached, carrying baby Sophia in her arms. She smiled as she watched the interaction. "You’re filling his head with stories again," she teased.
Matthew smirked. "They’re not just stories. Samurai still exist."
Maverick’s excitent was imdiate. "Can I et one?"
Matthew ruffled his son’s hair. "If you behave, maybe."
Amber sighed, shaking her head. "That’s all we need. Maverick running around trying to challenge samurai to duels."
Maverick gasped. "Do they use real swords?"
Amber shot Matthew a playful glare. "See what you’ve started?"
Matthew grinned. "Hey, it’s educational."
Amber rolled her eyes, adjusting Sophia in her arms. The baby stirred but remained peacefully asleep. "I just hope the trip isn’t too much for her."
Matthew wrapped an arm around Amber’s shoulders. "She’s doing fine. And so are you."
Amber leaned into him, sighing. "I just can’t believe we’re sailing halfway across the world with a newborn."
Matthew kissed her forehead. "You’re stronger than you think, Evie."
She gave him a tired smile. "And you’re still a politician, even with your own wife."
Matthew smirked but didn’t deny it.
December 20, 1897.
As the USS Arathia drew closer to Japan, the fleet received word that Japanese naval vessels were approaching to escort them into Tokyo Bay.
Matthew stood in the command center, watching as the officers relayed ssages back and forth. Admiral Parker, the commander of the Pacific Fleet, stepped beside him.
"They’re sending a full escort," Parker said, nodding at the incoming ships. "The Japanese are taking this visit seriously."
"They should," Matthew replied. "This is the first ti an Arathian president has ever set foot in Japan. It’s a big deal for both of us."
Parker nodded. "We’ll maintain a tight formation as we enter Tokyo Bay. No risks."
Matthew appreciated the caution. Though Japan was an ally, foreign visits always carried a level of uncertainty—especially when Arathia’s enemies were still out there.
Hours later, as the fleet sailed into Tokyo Bay, Matthew stood on the deck with Amber and their children. Maverick’s eyes widened as he saw the bustling city in the distance.
"Look at all the boats!" he exclaid.
Amber held Sophia close, her expression a mix of awe and apprehension. "It’s beautiful," she admitted.
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Matthew nodded. Japan had changed drastically in the past few decades. The once-isolated nation had embraced modernization, and now, it was a rising power.
As the ships slowed, Japanese officials approached in smaller boats, preparing to guide them to the port. The mont had arrived.
December 21, 1897
Tokyo, Japan
The city was alive with excitent. Thousands of people lined the streets as Matthew and his family disembarked, flanked by Arathian and Japanese officials.
Matthew adjusted his suit, scanning the crowds. The Japanese people were curious but respectful, many bowing as he passed.
At the grand Imperial Palace, they were greeted by high-ranking officials and dignitaries. The air buzzed with formality, the weight of tradition heavy in the atmosphere.
Then, the mont ca.
The massive doors opened, revealing Emperor iji himself. Though frail, he carried himself with dignity. Beside him stood Crown Prince Yoshihito, the future of Japan.
Matthew stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Your Majesty, it is an honor."
The Emperor studied him before giving a slow nod. "President Hesh. Arathia has traveled far to be here."
Matthew smiled. "And we do so as friends."
The Emperor motioned for them to sit, and as they settled, the conversations began.
For hours, they discussed the future—trade, military cooperation, and the evolving world order. Japan was expanding its influence, just as Arathia was, and both nations knew the value of a strong alliance.
Later that evening, a grand banquet was held in their honor. The dining hall was filled with the elite of Japanese society, the scent of expertly prepared dishes filling the air.
Amber, dressed in an elegant kimono gifted to her upon arrival, sat beside Matthew. "This is incredible," she whispered.
Matthew nodded, raising his glass in a toast as he addressed the room.
"To Japan," he said. "To the new Emperor. And to the friendship between our nations."
Glasses clinked, and a wave of applause followed.
Maverick, sitting beside them, leaned close. "Did you see any samurai yet?" he whispered eagerly.
Matthew chuckled. "Not yet, buddy. But the night is still young."
"After the succession ceremony, you’ll find one samurai around since they are prevalent here in the capital," Amber added.
"Yay! That’s a promise."
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