Jakarta Convention Center, Jakarta, Republic of Indonesia - June 16, 2023

The ASEAN summit convened sooner than planned, amid significant international upheaval. Moments before the summit's commencement, presidents, state leaders, and ambassadors from ASEAN member nations gathered at the opening ceremony. As the national anthems played, the atmosphere carried its customary solemnity, but there was an underlying acknowledgment that they were no longer on familiar ground.

ASEAN countries have started to feel a palpable strain as they grapple with the transition to a new world, where the steady presence of external superpowers, particularly the United States, is noticeably absent. The sudden loss of their most prominent strategic partner in the region has placed ASEAN nations, especially those with territorial disputes with China, in a precarious position.

Vietnam and the Philippines, two nations with direct sovereignty interests in the South China Sea, quickly recognized the absence of the United States as a power vacuum that China is likely to attempt filling. Faced with the prospect of military isolation and a rising dependency on China, they began strengthening intra-regional alliances, proposing joint military exercises to protect maritime rights and sovereignty, signaling to China that ASEAN would not be easy prey. Yet, they were acutely aware that, in this new reality, they could no longer rely solely on external assistance but would need to stand resilient on their own.

China, now also present in this new world, showed no intention of scaling back its power expansion. Amidst shifting global conditions and a fractured international political order, China began to pressure smaller nations, imposing stringent economic and political terms in exchange for favorable trade conditions with the world's second-largest economy.

After the opening ceremony concluded, the delegations moved into the Jakarta Convention Center. Within the grand hall, leaders of ASEAN nations ascended the stage, linking hands in a symbolic show of ASEAN solidarity.

Then, President Joko Widodo of Indonesia took the podium, his gaze steady as he addressed the global press. "ASEAN is not merely an economic coalition; each member state possesses its own history and sovereignty, and we are not pawns for greater powers. We sail together through turbulent waves, united to endure this difficult period.

"Each ASEAN member is a critical component, helping make our organization the 'epicenter of growth.' We each have the potential to be strong in our right, but this also entails a collective responsibility to our region and requires long-term strategies that ensure sustainable economic growth and regional peace.

"ASEAN is neither a pawn nor a military political tool subject to outside control; we are sovereign nations with our identities and independent governments. It is essential that we stand united to overcome global political turmoil."

With his address complete, the delegations entered the main conference room. The circular layout of tables and chairs reinforced the summit's focus on equal footing, with even unofficial members like Timor-Leste in attendance.

"What we have outlined here represents our aspirations, but real issues remain between our nations—crises, conflicts, protests, and much more," an official remarked.

"With current political volatility, we are on the cusp of greater dependence on the People's Republic of China. Regarding the South China Sea, even the United States can do little while its forces are strained in allied nations."

"This could ignite anger among the public, particularly those with less education, who might be swayed to violence when provoked or manipulated by anti-Chinese sentiment, even if such unrest were incited by Chinese interests," another official noted.

"Yes, they would push us to pursue their model of economic growth, speaking highly of them so our economy remains stable, which could spark massive public opposition," added another delegate.

"Even so," one representative said thoughtfully, "China is not immune to crises. Their global exports dominate, and even if Western allies reduce investments, China remains robust, building a cutting-edge economy largely through exports. However, their heavy reliance on exports is stagnating. They're now pursuing reforms, hoping for economic recovery."

"Instead, we should collaborate more closely among ourselves rather than depending entirely on their massive market. Let's not forget—they need us too."

"They may need our land more than anything else," commented the Philippine president, "especially if they manage to bring Taiwan under control."

"All members should begin crafting new economic agreements," he continued. "We must create strategies that reduce our dependence on Mainland China, implementing policies that benefit ASEAN companies and corporations, while deepening cooperation for autonomy. I believe now is the moment for unity, as we have declared—not only in economic cooperation but also in regional security."

President Widodo responded, acknowledging the harsh reality: "Though we cannot entirely avoid dependence on China, certain resources remain out of reach even for Japan or South Korea. With unreasonable geographic distances, we may still need the assistance of the U.S. and allied nations."

He paused, then added a glimmer of hope, "Despite our current limitations, expanding ASEAN influence into Rodenius and Philades could lessen our reliance on China and solidify ASEAN's authority over our own territories."

The Vietnamese Prime Minister supported Widodo's words, "It is worth the attempt. Though China is ahead of us, their geographical distance provides an opening to collaborate with Oceania and South Asia, increasing our influence in Rodenius and Philades."

The conference continued with discussions of strategic cooperation among ASEAN states on political and economic matters, ultimately reaching consensus on new policies that would enable national corporations to collaborate and enhance technological and economic development across ASEAN. These resolutions were accepted and ratified by all ASEAN nations.

The National Diet Building, Tokyo, Japan

The recent translocation event has sent shockwaves throughout Japan, where the realization is sinking in: they can no longer count on the United States across the Pacific as their steadfast protector. This pressing reality has driven nations like Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan to reassess their stance toward regional powers Russia, North Korea, and China.

Within the hallowed halls of the National Diet, an emergency session is underway. Political factions are debating critical decisions that may alter Japan's future, with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) holding a substantial majority. Lawmakers, feeling the urgency, are calling for constitutional reforms to empower the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), transforming them into a fully equipped military capable of preemptive strikes on enemy territories, unbound by constitutional restrictions.

An LDP member stood and declared, "You can see here, ladies and gentlemen, that our reliance on American protection has robbed us of the opportunity to rebuild a formidable military against our adversaries. I believe Japan should consider withdrawing from the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Even the United States cannot shield us from a nuclear attack from Pyongyang. Possessing weapons of mass destruction, such as nuclear bombs, would give us the deterrence advantage and reduce the chances of war." His words echoed a deep-rooted nationalism resonant within Japan.

The Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP), a progressive party devoted to peace and democratic values, voiced their opposition. "We can take a tougher stance on our adversaries through economic measures. Additionally, developing nuclear weapons and expanding militarization would damage our national reputation and provide our enemies with grounds for retaliation, undermining our diplomatic standing. Besides, Mainland China is currently grappling with an economic crisis, and they may not readily attack us," argued a CDP representative.

Unconvinced, an LDP member countered, "If our adversaries were to use nuclear weapons against us, would we then search for countermeasures? Your words risk placing Japan in a perilous position. You know, even the U.S. lacks the capacity to intercept every ballistic missile. Rebuilding Japan's military forces and increasing the defense budget would fortify our regional strength."

The LDP representatives appeared increasingly confident, as their opponents lacked a concrete alternative solution and were slowly losing ground. Nonetheless, the Speaker of the House voiced a rare opposition to the LDP's motion. "I urge restraint," he stated. "Our Constitution clearly stipulates that Japan shall not maintain forces with offensive capability. Politically, we are bound by a military alliance with the United States, and socially, the Japanese public largely favors peace and diplomacy."

This reminder visibly unsettled the LDP members, as the notion of bowing to U.S. restrictions struck a nerve in their national pride. Tensions simmered as debate raged on, each party vying to shape Japan's stance in this new world order.

Geographically isolated and vulnerable, Japan, alongside South Korea, is now pivoting sharply in its defense policies to address threats from neighboring powers. This shift has reshaped East Asia's strategic landscape, as the U.S. presence, though lingering, is significantly weakened. American forces face considerable challenges, fueling expert concerns that the U.S. may struggle to protect its allies effectively. In response, East Asian allies are increasing defense budgets and collaborating with U.S. partners in other regions, despite ongoing economic strain.

Late Evening, Osaka, Japan

In the shadowed streets of Osaka, two civilian white vans quietly navigated their way toward a critical target under the cover of night. Disguised as ordinary vehicles, they concealed an elite Japanese Special Forces unit, equipped with specialized gear for tonight's covert raid.

The lead Captain slid open the small communication window to the driver, his voice tense with anticipation, "How much longer until we reach the target?"

"About four minutes," the driver replied without looking back.

The Captain then addressed the five operatives in his vehicle, as well as the six in the trailing van. "Alright, everyone, gear up. We're approaching the designated location."

They pulled up in front of an aging, seven-story Japanese apartment building. It was a typical structure, worn and quiet, with not a soul in sight. The operatives swiftly exited the vehicles, moving with precision to avoid drawing attention.

Taking cover behind the wall at the gate, the Captain issued his commands: "Alpha team will proceed to the target on the fifth floor. Bravo team, sweep and secure the perimeter—make sure he doesn't get a chance to slip away. Let's move. Now."

"Roger that," Bravo team leader responded. "Everyone engage."

Alpha team advanced up the staircase with disciplined caution, while Bravo team secured the main entrance and checked every corner below, ensuring nothing escaped their scrutiny. Alpha ascended one floor at a time, knowing the midnight hour was their best advantage—no one would be awake to notice.

Reaching the designated floor, the Captain paused, his team alert and ready. "Beta-1, any activity from target?"

"Nothing unusual from the target, Alpha-1," Beta-1 replied. He was a seasoned recon operative who had surveilled the target's movements over the past week, his observation steadfast.

"Follow me," the Captain commanded, his voice hushed but resolute. They crept silently down the dimly lit corridor until they reached room 507, their intended destination.

The team didn't need verbal instructions; they moved seamlessly. One operative readied the door breach hammer, while others positioned themselves, weapons drawn, prepared for entry. The Captain held up his fingers, counting down.

As his last finger folded into a fist, the hammer smashed against the door, sending it crashing inward with a thunderous slam.

The sound echoed down the empty halls. The operatives stormed into the pitch-dark room, their flashlights cutting through the shadows. But it was empty—no sign of the target.

"Check the balcony and bathroom. Any place he could possibly hide," the Captain ordered.

Lights flicked on as they combed the room, but the discovery was unnerving. "Sir, no signs of forced exit or escape" one operative reported, a frown of disbelief on his face.

Anger tightened the Captain's expression. "Impossible. Wake everyone in the building. We're searching each apartment!"

Turning sharply, he addressed Beta-1. "You're absolutely certain he didn't leave?"

"I've had eyes on the exterior constantly," Beta-1 replied, defending his vigilance. "If he'd slipped out, I would've seen him, day or night. Beta-2 is stationed on the opposite side of the building. If he tried to escape through another apartment, we'd know. Over."

"Bravo, status report." the Captain requested.

"This is Bravo-1. No unusual activity or signs in the surrounding area or other floors, over," replied Bravo's leader.

With mounting frustration, the Captain surveyed the room, which was stacked with manga volumes and a Wacom tablet on the desk. The mission commander entered, his eyes scanning the shelves. He grabbed a copy of Nihonkoku Shoukan, the manga's title glaring back at him. His jaw tightened. "You won't slip away from us so easily, Minorou," he muttered.

By morning, the entire building had been locked down. Every room was thoroughly inspected, yet no trace of Minorou or any clue as to his escape could be found. The raid had been declared a failure, and the report was promptly forwarded to Osaka's police headquarters.

In a government office, officers held an urgent meeting on the elusive Minorou—the young writer of the manga Summoning Japan—who had vanished without a trace. A senior Self-Defense Force officer scowled, "I can't believe tracking down a teenager could be so difficult. When the police searched his house, he was gone. And now, despite a full tactical sweep, we're left empty-handed."

A CIA intelligence officer shook his head. "It's absurd. For a teenager to dodge our suprise attack like this—the fuck how?"

The Japanese officer responded gravely, "If we capture him, we'll interrogate him immediately about the translocation event and the implications for our nation and his online community."

The CIA officer countered, "We can't let this drop. Finding him is critical. This kid's story parallels our new reality so closely, there's no way he could have evaded us without something—or someone—helping him. It suggests there's more here than meets the eye."

The Japanese officer looked doubtful. "Are you confident we'll get him next time?"

"As long as we continue, failure isn't an option," the CIA agent replied, his resolve unshaken.

This sparked further debate. The question of Minorou's connection to the translocation hovered, unresolved. Could he truly hold the answers to how entire nations were transported to this new world, or was he just a bystander caught up in coincidence? The answer remained elusive, the truth obscured in mystery.