The Strays
I. Definition
The Strays is a highly structured, independent faction in The Isekai Journey of the Strays, formed by Earthlings who escaped the cycle of slavery within the Mikhland Empire. Unlike adventurer guilds, mercenary bands, or rebellion groups, The Strays operate as a self-sustaining political, economic, and military entity. Their goal is not mere survival but strategic maneuvering through the world's power struggles to secure their autonomy and, ultimately, seek a way back to Earth.
Emerging from the brutality of slavery, The Strays have shaped themselves into a force that values pragmatism, intelligence, and adaptability over idealism. Their unique advantage lies in their Earth-born knowledge, which they weaponize to outthink, outmaneuver, and overpower those who seek to control them. Operating in the shadows of the Mikhland Empire's political and military landscape, The Strays have evolved from a desperate group of escapees into a faction that influences the world from behind the scenes.
II. Core Identity and Mission
The Strays are defined by three overarching objectives, each interwoven with their survival strategy and long-term aspirations.
1. Survival & Freedom
The Strays' foremost priority is ensuring their continued existence and independence. Having endured the horrors of slavery, they refuse to submit to any faction, no matter how powerful. They operate under the belief that without strength, freedom is an illusion. To maintain this freedom, they are willing to make difficult choices—whether through diplomacy, espionage, or warfare.
The Mikhland Empire, infamous for summoning Earthlings as disposable laborers, continues to hunt them down. Other factions, intrigued by their knowledge and potential, seek to exploit them for their own gain. Against these overwhelming forces, The Strays use guerrilla tactics, intelligence networks, and advanced Earth-based knowledge to maintain their autonomy. Every battle they fight, whether in the shadows or on the battlefield, is in service of their continued survival.
2. Return to Earth
Though The Strays have built a formidable presence in this world, they have never abandoned their ultimate goal—finding a way back to Earth. Unlike many other Earthlings who resign themselves to their new reality, The Strays refuse to accept permanent exile.
To achieve this, they tirelessly search for knowledge, magical phenomena, and technological advancements that might serve as a gateway home. This pursuit leads them to research teleportation magic, ancient ruins, and the empire's restricted archives, often putting them in conflict with powerful entities that seek to keep such knowledge hidden. Their search for a way back is not just scientific but also deeply personal, as many among them still long for the lives they lost.
3. Influence & Power
The Strays understand that survival and freedom cannot be secured without power. In a world where strength dictates one's place in the hierarchy, they seek to establish themselves as a faction that no one can afford to ignore or trifle with.
They pursue power on three key fronts:
Political Power – By engaging in diplomacy, manipulating rival factions, and forming strategic alliances, The Strays aim to exert influence over key political players. Their knowledge of Earth's political history gives them insight into negotiation, governance, and psychological warfare, allowing them to turn even the strongest of enemies into reluctant allies.
Economic Power – The Strays have pioneered industries leveraging Earth-based scientific advancements, creating monopolies that grant them immense wealth and bargaining power. Their introduction of enzyme-based technology and alchemical innovations has reshaped local economies, making them indispensable to certain factions while destabilizing others.
Military Power – Though small in number compared to standing armies, The Strays compensate with superior tactics, unconventional warfare, and deadly efficiency. Their members are highly trained in guerrilla warfare, assassination, and sabotage, making them a nightmare for traditional military forces.
By securing these three forms of power, The Strays ensure that they are never reduced to mere pawns in someone else's game.
III. Core Principles
While The Strays operate with a pragmatic mindset, they are bound by key guiding principles that shape their decision-making and interactions with the world.
1. "Power First, Morality Second"
The Strays do not adhere to traditional notions of good and evil. Their actions are dictated by necessity rather than idealism. While they are not devoid of ethics, they prioritize survival and strategic advantage over moral absolutism. They understand that in a world ruled by force, those who cling to rigid morality often fall first.
That being said, they do not engage in needless cruelty. Their experiences as slaves have instilled in them a deep aversion to oppression, making them more inclined to oppose outright atrocities such as genocide and forced servitude.
2. "Never Be a Pawn"
The Strays refuse to serve as tools for any empire, kingdom, or ruling entity. They have already experienced the pain of subjugation and will never allow themselves to be used again. Every alliance they form is based on mutual benefit, and every negotiation is approached with the intent of securing leverage.
Even among allies, The Strays maintain a level of secrecy and independence, ensuring that no external power can dictate their actions or compromise their autonomy.
3. "Knowledge is Power"
One of The Strays' greatest strengths is their Earth-born knowledge. In a world where science and magic coexist, their understanding of chemistry, engineering, physics, and strategy grants them a unique advantage over native factions.
They use this knowledge to develop new technologies, outmaneuver enemies, and innovate in ways that their adversaries cannot predict. Whether through economic monopolies, military advancements, or intelligence networks, The Strays treat information as their greatest weapon.
4. "Adapt and Overcome"
Rigidity is a weakness. The Strays embrace adaptability as their core strength, using deception, unconventional tactics, and strategic improvisation to outmaneuver their enemies. They do not fight fair, nor do they engage in traditional warfare. Every battle, whether physical or political, is fought on their terms.
This principle extends beyond combat—it applies to diplomacy, economic strategies, and internal governance. The Strays constantly evolve, adjusting their methods to meet new challenges while ensuring that they remain unpredictable and one step ahead.
IV. The Strays and the World
The Strays are neither heroes nor villains. Their presence in the world is both disruptive and transformative. To some, they are a dangerous rogue faction that threatens the balance of power. To others, they are a symbol of resistance against tyranny.
1. Relationship with the Mikhland Empire
The Mikhland Empire considers The Strays a major threat. Having escaped their intended fate as disposable slaves, The Strays are a reminder of the empire's failure to maintain control. Imperial forces actively seek to recapture or eliminate them, leading to constant skirmishes, sabotage missions, and intelligence warfare between the two sides.
2. Relationship with Other Factions
The Strays' interactions with other factions vary depending on mutual interests. Some factions view them as valuable allies due to their technological innovations, while others see them as unpredictable wild cards. They form temporary alliances when necessary but always ensure that they are never at the mercy of another group's agenda.
3. Internal Structure
While The Strays have a clear hierarchy, their leadership is based on merit rather than birthright or status. Decisions are made collectively, with the most experienced and capable individuals guiding the faction. Unlike the rigid power structures of the empire, The Strays value adaptability and competence over tradition.
V. Conclusion
The Strays are a force unlike any other in the world of The Isekai Journey of the Strays. Born from suffering, tempered by struggle, and defined by ambition, they are more than just a faction—they are a revolution against the status quo. In their quest for survival, power, and a way home, they have become an entity that shapes the very fabric of the world they inhabit.
They are not merely players in the game of power—they are the ones rewriting the rules.