Louigi O. Nillos stood atop the grand balcony of his newly constructed palace, overlooking the vast expanse of Maharlika's growing capital. It had been sixteen years since he was reborn into this world, and his empire was now beginning to take shape. The streets below bustled with activity—traders from distant lands, soldiers marching in disciplined formation, and scholars discussing philosophy in newly built academies.
Updated Status:
Name: Louigi O. Nillos
Age: 16
Title: Supreme Ruler of Maharlika
Intelligence: 97
Wisdom: 94
Physique: 88
War Mastery: 92
Skills:
Grand Strategist (Boosts effectiveness of military formations and tactics)
Master Diplomat (Increases negotiation success with foreign leaders)
Visionary Architect (Improves infrastructure planning and execution)
Economic Reformer (Enhances taxation, trade, and currency management)
Warrior's Presence (Buffs troops' morale during battles)
The Growth of Maharlika
Under his leadership, Maharlika had expanded significantly. His control extended from the central islands to the northern regions, where his forces had established a foothold. The empire's population had swelled to nearly 700,000 people, many of whom now enjoyed a structured and prosperous way of life.
The economy had been transformed with the introduction of minted silver coins, fair trade policies, and government-sponsored farming programs. Merchants from China, Japan, and even distant Indian and Arab traders had begun to recognize Maharlika as an emerging power in Southeast Asia.
Louigi had spent years refining his military. His army had grown to over 50,000 disciplined soldiers, including a well-trained cavalry of 10,000 and an elite naval fleet of 300 warships. His generals, Rajah Dumagat and Kapitan Suma, had been tasked with testing new battle formations inspired by ancient Roman legions and Chinese strategic warfare.
"The world does not respect the weak," Louigi said, addressing his high council. "We must continue to strengthen our forces if Maharlika is to stand against the empires of the West and the rising power of the Ottomans."
His words were met with nods of agreement. His ministers and generals had seen firsthand how the world was changing, and they knew they had to be prepared.
Maharlika's rise did not go unnoticed. Spies had reported that the Ming Dynasty, the Sultanate of Brunei, and even European powers such as Portugal and Spain had begun to take an interest in his growing empire. Some saw him as a threat, others as a potential ally.
In a meeting with his foreign affairs council, Amaya, his chief diplomat, presented a report.
"My lord, the Ming Dynasty has acknowledged Maharlika's existence but remains cautious. They fear we may disrupt their dominance in the region."
Louigi smirked. "Good. That means we are doing something right."
Amaya continued, "The Sultan of Brunei has been hostile, refusing to acknowledge our sovereignty. Portuguese explorers, however, seem intrigued by our advancements."
Louigi turned to his trusted general. "Kapitan Suma, how soon can we prepare our navy for a potential conflict with Brunei?"
"In two months, my lord," Suma responded confidently. "Our new ships are faster and stronger. If war comes, we will be ready."
Across the sea, the Sultan of Brunei sat in his palace, seething with anger. Reports of Maharlika's expansion had reached his ears, and he saw Louigi as an upstart who threatened his rule.
"This boy thinks he can challenge us?" he growled. "We have ruled these lands for centuries. If he wants war, we shall give him war."
His advisors, however, were wary. "Sultan, Maharlika is not the same weak land it was years ago. Their forces are trained, their economy is strong, and their leader… he is not to be underestimated."
But the Sultan was not willing to listen. He sent envoys to gather warriors from allied Muslim states, preparing for what he believed would be an easy victory.
As tensions rose, Louigi gathered his people in the grand plaza. Thousands stood before him, eager to hear his words. He raised his sword high, its blade glinting under the sunlight.
"My people! We are no longer just a collection of tribes. We are a nation! From this day forth, we are Maharlika, a nation that shall stand against the mightiest of foes!"
The crowd erupted into cheers. The name "Maharlika" would soon be known across the world.
And thus, the true journey of conquest began.