The sun cast golden rays over the bustling streets of Maharlika's capital. Markets thrived with merchants selling spices, textiles, and exotic goods from across the seas. Fishermen hauled in their morning catch, and blacksmiths hammered out new weapons for the growing army. In just three years, the once-scattered tribes had transformed into a structured society, but Louigi knew that true power required more than internal stability. He had to look beyond his borders.
Louigi's rule had expanded significantly, now governing over twelve major settlements and dozens of smaller villages, covering a vast region of over 100,000 square kilometers. With a population reaching nearly 500,000 people, Maharlika had become one of the most organized and prosperous forces in the region. Trade routes stretched from the Malay Peninsula to China, and resources flowed in abundance.
His military stood at 10,000 professional soldiers, 15,000 trained militia, and an expanding navy of 200 warships. These forces were disciplined, equipped with superior weapons, and led by experienced commanders. In contrast, his enemies—the fragmented warlords resisting unification—had a combined force of approximately 30,000 warriors, but they lacked proper organization and advanced weaponry. Their forces were mostly composed of loosely formed mercenaries, bandits, and rebellious chieftains unwilling to submit to Maharlika's centralized rule.
As he studied the reports in his chamber, Louigi could see that, despite their greater numbers, these enemies would struggle to match Maharlika's well-trained forces. But he also knew that underestimating them would be a grave mistake.
Louigi sat in the newly established Council Hall, a grand wooden structure built at the heart of the capital. The council members gathered around a large map, each keenly studying the marked territories.
Amaya, the Minister of Trade and Economy, cleared her throat. "Brunei has taken notice of our growth. They sent an envoy two weeks ago, inquiring about our intentions. They see us as both a potential ally and a future rival."
Louigi tapped his fingers on the wooden table. "And what of the Ming Dynasty?"
Rajah Dumagat, the Supreme General, placed a carved wooden piece onto the map. "Their traders continue to arrive in our ports, but they remain cautious. We've grown too quickly in their eyes."
Kapitan Suma, the High Admiral, smirked. "Perhaps we should remind them that we are not to be underestimated."
Louigi raised a hand to silence the murmurs. "No. Not yet. Our military is strong, but diplomacy is a war fought with words before swords. We will extend a hand before we draw our blades."
Turning to Amaya, he gave his first command. "Prepare a diplomatic mission to Brunei. Offer trade agreements and mutual defense pacts. We need allies, not enemies."
She nodded. "And if they refuse?"
Louigi's eyes gleamed with determination. "Then we prepare for what must come."
Before heading to bed that evening, Louigi opened his System Interface, a glowing screen visible only to him.
[Current Status]
Name: Louigi O. Nillos
Age: 16
Title: Supreme Ruler of Maharlika
Level: 15
Intelligence: 98 (+10 from Scholarly Learning)
Wisdom: 92 (+8 from Tactical Mastery)
Physique: 85 (+5 from Combat Training)
Charisma: 95 (+6 from Leader's Presence)
Leadership: 100 (+10 from Emperor's Might)
[Skills]
Tactical Mastery (Level 3) – Grants superior battle strategies and formations.
Warrior's Endurance (Level 2) – Increases stamina in prolonged combat.
Master Negotiator (Level 3) – Enhances diplomatic success in trade and alliances.
Economic Vision (Level 2) – Improves financial planning and resource management.
Architect of Empire (Level 2) – Enables systematic city planning and governance.
[Active Buffs]
Emperor's Presence – Troops and officials gain morale when near Louigi.
Strategic Brilliance – Grants a 10% boost in battle effectiveness.
Trade Pioneer – Increases profits from foreign trade.
Louigi smirked. The system was evolving alongside him. With his intelligence, leadership, and military skills improving, his empire's fate was secure—if he played his moves wisely.
Despite his successes, not all within Maharlika embraced Louigi's rule. Some warlords resisted centralized power, preferring their independence. One such man was Datu Agusan, a veteran chieftain controlling a fertile valley crucial for agriculture.
"My people answer only to me!" Agusan bellowed when summoned to the council. "My ancestors ruled this land before you arrived. I will not bend the knee to a boy!"
Louigi remained calm. "Then let your people decide. If they truly believe in you, they will stand by your side."
A week later, Louigi arrived in Agusan's lands with a battalion of soldiers—not to fight, but to demonstrate his power.
As he rode into the village, villagers whispered amongst themselves, wary of his presence. Lakan Datu, his Minister of Agriculture, rode beside him. "Are you sure about this approach?"
Louigi nodded. "People follow those who provide. Let us show them what Maharlika offers."
He called the villagers together and addressed them. "Look around you. Maharlika does not seek to take what is yours. We seek unity. Under my rule, your fields will be protected, your markets will flourish, and your sons will fight as warriors in a disciplined army, not as scattered tribes."
Some murmured in agreement, others in defiance. But when Louigi unveiled barrels of grain from surplus harvests and new iron tools, the resistance wavered. Datu Agusan, seeing his people swayed, gritted his teeth.
"You make a bold claim. But words mean nothing without action."
Louigi smiled. "Then watch, and you shall see."
As Maharlika grew, so did its enemies. Word arrived from the western territories—a confederation of warlords was gathering, uniting against Louigi's rule.
Suma, reading the report aloud, frowned. "They see us as a threat. They have no desire to be ruled."
Louigi took a deep breath, staring at the map. "Then we must show them the benefits of unity—through diplomacy, if possible. Through steel, if necessary."
Rajah Dumagat cracked his knuckles. "Their forces are scattered, but their numbers are growing. If they attack first, it will be costly."
Louigi turned to Amaya. "Send word to their leaders. Offer a seat at the table. If they refuse, we will make our stance clear."
Kapitan Suma leaned forward. "Shall we prepare the fleet?"
Louigi smirked. "Not yet. First, let us see who among them is willing to listen."
The time for expansion was coming. Louigi knew that Maharlika's future would not be secured by force alone. It would take strategy, diplomacy, and vision.
As he stood on the balcony of the palace, watching the torches flicker below, he whispered to himself, "This is only the beginning."
End of the chapter.