14 Chapter 14 - Aureus Astrea 6 (2/2)
Edward bowed towards Aureus.
Tarin then vouched for Calvus and Denter. Citing their past history and military records, it would be far more beneficial to keep them in the loop regarding the orbs and work towards strengthening Everdawn.
Johan was in agreement with Tarin.
Aureus agreed and stated that he will brief them himself when they have returned from their current duties.
The four then discussed how the orbs may be used late into the night.
—
”Highness, of the various ideas discussed last night, two stands out.” Tarin started as the four gathered in the study once again the next day.
Tarin then narrated about the implications of Everdawn's sphere users all being equipped with grade 5 monster cores. He went on saying that the rare condition of the cores due to having a shelf life of half a century has been overcome by the core refiner. That can be considered a technological advantage over lesser equipped forces.
Johan stressed the importance of training as a difference in the strength of a sphere can still be negated by a difference in skill. Further suggesting that training initiatives focusing on sphere user skills should be drafted and implemented within a year.
Edward appeared lost as the discussion took place and decided that silence was the way to go.
Aureus seemed to catch on to Edward's silence ”Grade 5 and 6 monster cores are of a different valuation compared to grades 1-4 due to various factors. However, the value of grade 5 monster cores are diluted by the Magi Order's ability to craft artificial grade 5 monster cores.”
”Only class 7-8 demon beasts will have a decent probability of having grade 5 or 6 monster cores and those beasts are equivalent in strength to our adamant tier combatants.” Johan added.
”The smallest difference can have the biggest impact in combat on the highest level. A difference in one grade may well mean victory or defeat at the level of elite sphere users.” Tarin finished.
Edward then asked for a strength projection of Everdawn's forces if sphere users can be equipped with grade 4 monster cores.
”1 Star power,” Johan replied.
”1 Star?” Edward asked.
”The mercenary guild has segregated a power's military strength into three broad categories. Star, Sun and Superpower. In general, 4 Starred powers is equivalent to a 1 sun power. While 8 sun powers is equivalent to a superpower. The superpower categorization is outdated as the three superpowers in existence all have well beyond 8 suns worth of power under them.” Tarin supplied.
This surprised Edward as he considered the size of Everdawn's forces. He soon came to the conclusion that Everdawn's forces did not come close to be able to fulfill it's duties as a frontier garrison. Edward then voiced his musings which led Tarin and Johan turning to Aureus.
Aureus appeared bemused as he explained, ”In essence, due to the great separation, tensions between the core and inner realm has risen over the past few decades. Inter-realm troop movements has reflected that, with more forces being garrisoned in the core realm near the spatial gates leading to the inner realm.”
”Having a 1 star force in the outer realm can be considered generous in current circumstances.”
”Nevertheless, in response to his highness's move to the outer realm, the other 2 superpowers has bolstered their presence in the outer realm. According to our reports, the other two holdings in the outer realm should both be rated at 2 starred power each.” Tarin added after a while.
”It appears that the superpowers think quite highly of his highness,” Edward joked.
”They would have sent more and probably their elites too if his highness traveled here with his original army. Even as it is, we believe that the other 2 superpower holdings are in contact with each other. Should his highness make any overt moves, it is expected that there will be resistance from both the powers in the outer realm.” Tarin looked pensive as he added on.