1st October, Space Era Year 101.
The monthly stipend of one million Earth Dollars that Aerys Vilozyver received had been converted into one million Centory Pound (₵)—the result of his government's success in establishing a new sovereign currency to replace the New Hope Dollar, at a perfect exchange rate of one to one.Yet, regardless of his wealth, Aerys continued to live with austere simplicity. He spent no more than twenty thousand pounds per month, leaving the rest untouched—without even knowing for what purpose he kept it.
His academic life remained a source of quiet discontent; to him, the curriculum was "painfully slow." Every subject they taught was one his mother had already instructed him in years ago. Out of boredom, Aerys created an artificial intelligence named Jungen, to complete his assignments in his stead—a program capable of speech so natural, and logic so refined, it outmatched several of his professors.
"This question requests an analysis of trade equilibrium,"Jungen's voice sounded, calm and precise."But Master Aerys… if I answer on your behalf, you shall once again achieve a perfect score.""Then answer it," Aerys replied evenly. "I have no desire for grades—only to pass beyond them."
One afternoon, after class, Aerys wandered through the central park of the city. The grey sky of New Hope was mirrored in his emotionless eyes—until the sharp echo of gunfire broke the stillness.Across the street, three men in black cloaks emerged, rushing toward him with lethal intent.
Fsh! Fsh! Fsh!
Bolts of plasma cut through the air, one grazing the corner of his right eye by mere inches. But before Aerys could even react, shadows shifted—SSA(Sicherheitsamt) operatives of his covert guard appeared, eliminating the assailants within minutes.
"Report, Your Highness," one agent knelt. "They are confirmed operatives of Earth's Mossad faction. Shall we extract information on-site?"
Aerys shook his head slightly, pointing toward the insignia upon his armband—the swastika of Centaury, beneath which lay the ceremonial blade of Centaury's authority.
"Deliver them to the main facility on Centaury," he said coldly."Understood, Heir Apparent!"
He walked on as though nothing had occurred, his face composed as still water—unshaken, unafraid.
For five months, Aerys had exhibited no further "episodes."Lord Aelyzabeth Thors had long since prohibited any sharp object from approaching him, for she knew—one careless slip could awaken the beast within her son.
7th October, Space Era Year 101.
On this day, Aerys's younger sister was born.That same evening, he received the command to return to Centaury after completing his examinations.
17th October, Space Era Year 101.
When the interstellar vessel of the Central Government touched down upon the runway of the CapitalPolis of Berlyn, the national anthem thundered across the heavens.The city gleamed with immaculate order—no litter, no beggars.Every street corner was adorned with the tricolour banners of the Centory Kingdom, and upon the tallest mast soared the sigil of his mother: the Iron Eagle grasping the Sword of Dominion.
As the armored convoy rolled through the grand boulevard, Aerys caught sight of what lay at the central square—thousands of bodies, over ten thousand in total, suspended by the neck. They were politicians and officials executed for corruption.His face betrayed no emotion, yet within his heart he understood perfectly—This was why corruption had been halved.
Across the skyline, the enormous digital display of the NZN – Nationale Zentrale Nachrichtenagentur broadcasted the day's report:
"The transparency index of the Centory Kingdom Reich has surged to 50.49 points,compared to the New Hope Republic's mere 37.56..."
Aerys murmured to himself,
"Transparency, indeed... Mother must have executed many to achieve it."
When he arrived at the Palace of the Supreme Leader, the golden gates opened with majestic grace.There stood Aelyzabeth Thors herself—her countenance weary from long rule, yet her eyes glimmered with love and pride.
"Aerys…"She drew him into a tight embrace, as if fearful that he might vanish once more."My son, I have missed you beyond measure."
The roar of the gathered crowd shook the square:
"Heil Aelyzabeth Thors! Heil Aerys Vilozyver!"
Thus ends Chapter A-IX.