Chapter 12: Rebirth of the World Section 1: The Fallout of a Lost Era The world as we know it today was not always the realm of four grand Kingdoms, magical Dust, and the colossal conflict against the creatures known as Grimm. Our current way of life was born out of humanity's failed experiment: the Third World War, a global conflict that ended in nuclear devastation. In this chapter, we will delve into the ashes of that lost era and take a closer look at how the Kingdoms of Mistral, Vale, Vacuo, and Atlas rose up in the aftermath of immense destruction. The Third World War left the Earth's surface scarred and barren, but somehow, pockets of humanity managed to survive. These survivors rallied around the remains of four previous empires: the Great Qing Empire and the Han Ming dynasty in Asia (which would come to form the Kingdom of Mistral); the British Empire in Canada (forming the Kingdom of Vale); the Caliphate in Arabia (forming the Kingdom of Vacuo); and the Third Reich in Eastern and Central Europe (forming the Kingdom of Atlas). The cause of the war remains lost in time, but its catastrophic results are undeniable. On the atomic wasteland, something new emerged - perhaps as a mutation or a strange fusion of the primal forces let loose during the nuclear holocaust: Dust. This magical substance, imbued with a variety of elemental properties, led to the eventual creation of new technology and weapons, as well as aiding in the rebirth of civilization in the ruins of the nuclear conflict. Section 2: The Return of the Gods and the Formation of Grimm Once men and women started to gather strength and rebuild, the Gods made their return. The reasons for their absence are debated - some believe they sought refuge from the destruction, while others believe they were testing humanity. Nonetheless, their divine return brought forth the knowledge of Aura, allowing both humans and Faunus to access their inner energy fields for both defense and recovery. However, this was not without adverse consequences. With the growing strength of humanity and the powerful forces of Dust, a new malevolent breed of creatures emerged - the Grimm. Born seemingly from humanity's nightmares, they thirsted to destroy settlements and sow chaos. The world was once again divided by conflict. Section 3: The Rise of the Four Kingdoms In the centuries following the nuclear disaster, each of the four groups of survivors expanded their territories and political influence, eventually declaring themselves Kingdoms. The Kingdom of Mistral, based on the philosophies and artistry of the Great Qing Empire and the Han Ming dynasty, grew into an expansive and diverse territory. In distant Vale, the people looked to their history and adopted the governance that made Imperial Britain so powerful and influential in its day. The one thing they did not maintain, however, was the strict structure of standing noble classes, instead opting for a more open and merit-based society. Vacuo, forming amid the remnants of the Islamic Caliphate, likewise abandoned their strict hierarchical structure and focused on unity and strength, eventually establishing a unique monarchy that allowed for its people to have more say and freedom. The Kingdom of Atlas, born from the ashes of the Third Reich, looked to advance in terms of technology and military might. Despite the dark history looming over them, their fervent focus on progress, security, and innovation brought much good to their land, as well as to the other kingdoms. Section 4: The Origin of the Faunus and the Civil Struggle Though humans and Faunus now live side by side in the world of Remnant, they did not start as united brethren. The exact origin of the Faunus remains unconfirmed, but it is believed that they emerged out of the radioactive wastelands of the war, evolving alongside humanity with unique animal traits. This distinction caused mistrust and prejudice, leading to fighting and discrimination. However, the discovery and use of Aura and Semblance leveled the playing field between humanity and the Faunus, and paved the way for uneasy coexistence. Section 5: The Legacy of Monarchy Though the noble and aristocratic bloodlines have long been dissolved in the post-apocalyptic world, the titles and classifications of Kingdoms have remained. This was done to invoke a sense of unity, peace, and stability in the people, who found solace in the familiar structure of the past. In conclusion, the world of Remnant and its Kingdoms owe much to the world that came before it. The rebirth of society from the ashes of the Third World War and the subsequent struggles with the Faunus and the Grimm have shaped the reality that our heroes now navig-ate. Understanding the origins of the Kingdoms, the diverse philosophies they carry forward, the power of Dust, Aura, and Semblance, and the origins of the Faunus, bring an appreciation for the hard-won peace and cooperation upon which our world is built.

Section 6: The Fate of the Forgotten Lands In the wake of the nuclear devastation and the rise of Grimm, the United States of America, Japan, Latin America, the British Isles, Scandinavia, Africa, and Western Europe faced immense challenges. Many of these lands, once powerful and prosperous, crumbled under the weight of the apocalypse, while others barely managed to cling to their frayed existence. The United States of America, torn by the direct aftermath of nuclear warfare, was faced with a series of colossal natural disasters and widespread famine. Pockets of survivors can be found throughout the once-powerful nation, but the former United States never fully recovered due to its fragmented state and constant Grimm attacks. In Japan, the situation was equally dire. The island nation was hit hard by nuclear fallout, causing widespread devastation and the emergence of new, mutated Grimm specific to the region. Much of Japan's population dwindled, and those remaining chose to live in small, hidden settlements, shying away from the attention of the greater world. Latin America struggled with its large landmass and diverse terrain, ultimately giving rise to countless smaller communities, which became disconnected from one another. Some areas managed to thrive, developing and embracing a rich cultural mix, while many others succumbed to the Grimm and the ravages of their post-apocalyptic environment. The British Isles faced overwhelming darkness, as the once-powerful nation crumbled under the weight of the catastrophe. While the survivors that would go on to form Vale sought refuge and hope in Canada, those who remained in the homeland of Great Britain struggled against the strong presence of Grimm and the environmental challenges brought on by the nuclear fallout. Scandinavia fared better compared to other regions, largely due to its remote location and sparse population. Some settlements even managed to slowly rebuild, adapting to live in their harsh post-apocalyptic world. While these communities opted to remain secluded, their survival has not gone unnoticed, and remnants of their influence can be found in the greater world. Africa faced the double-edged sword of the apocalypse, with nuclear fallout destroying its environment and contributing to the creation of new and aggressive Grimm. However, the resilience and adaptability of the peoples of Africa shined through, as many smaller communities emerged and adopted nomadic lifestyles, moving constantly to avoid the constant threat of Grimm. Western Europe bore witness to the collapse of many of its great powerhouses, including France, Spain, and Italy. In their wake, a patchwork of smaller communities arose, struggling to maintain their identities and customs in a shattered world. Their success has been varied, yet their perseverance allows for the survival of cultural legacies and hope for a brighter future. In conclusion, the annihilation of Earth and the rise of the Grimm left its marks on every corner of the world. While the Kingdoms emerged as the most successful post-apocalyptic societies, countless other settlements and communities persevere in various states, clinging to the memories and cultures of their past, and perhaps one day, revealing themselves to the greater world.

Section 7: The Governance of Mistral and Its Legacy Mistral's unique fusion of cultural influences from the Great Qing Empire, the Ming Dynasty, and Greco-Roman traditions has created a captivatingly diverse and complex society. The Kingdom's emergence is owed to the descendants of the House of Zhu that ruled the Ming Dynasty and the House of Aisin-Gioro that ruled the Great Qing Empire. These families managed to overthrow the remnants of both the People's Republic of China on the mainland and the Republic of China in exile on Taiwan, uniting what remained of East Asia under their rule. In establishing their new governance, the rulers of Mistral took inspiration from the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary, adopting a similar model. The two Houses maintained their respect and influence, allowing them to hold on to their ancient cultures and traditions. To further consolidate power and ensure stability in their rule, these former imperial powers also drew upon Greco-Roman influences, incorporating their political philosophies, art, and architecture into their new Kingdom. Under this unique dual monarchy, Mistral splintered into two regions, each ruled by one of the Houses. The Eastern region maintained their staunch adherence to the ancient customs and traditions of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Meanwhile, the Western region embraced the more modern Greco-Roman practices, creating a perfect fusion. As a testament to their administrations' effectiveness and the strength of their bond, central institutions and functions, such as their military forces, were managed jointly by both Houses, symbolizing their unity in the face of challenges that continued to test the world. Ultimately, the governance of Mistral by the two Houses established a prosperous and thriving Kingdom but also ensured that their subjects respected their rich and diverse heritage. This balance of power and the negotiation of different cultural backgrounds allowed Mistral to emerge as a culturally diverse, economically prosperous, and beautiful Kingdom, propelled by the strength of its history and the openness of its leaders.

Section 8: The Governance of Atlas and Its Origin The government of Atlas is a complex mixture of military, corporate, and political influences, with a foundation laid by the alliance of various nationalist groups that emerged following the nuclear apocalypse. It is said that the remnants of Ukrainian nationalist groups like Azov and Right Sector, Polish imperialists, Baltic white nationalists, and nationalist groups in Belarus and Russia all played crucial roles in the formation of the Kingdom of Atlas. In the wake of the nuclear holocaust, these groups banded together, setting aside historical grievances and geographical conflicts in order to create an efficient governing structure. The Kingdom of Atlas integrated modern and sophisticated technology, military prowess, and merit-based governance inspired by the remnants of the pre-apocalyptic societies that once occupied the lands of the Intermarium countries of Eastern and Central Europe. Furthermore, Atlas adopted a hybrid system that saw the fusion of corporate and military power as both a governing and economic force. The government of Atlas, despite its roots in unyielding nationalism, has evolved into a bureaucratic and technocratic powerhouse, where leaders are elected or appointed based on their skills and experience, rather than historical lineage or privileged backgrounds. This system has enabled the Kingdom to prioritize innovation, technology, and military capabilities, allowing Atlas to emerge as a leader in advanced and cutting-edge technologies. Furthermore, the Kingdom of Atlas is composed of an elite ruling council comprised of representatives from various factions that contributed to its formation, including military leaders, corporate heads, and political minds. This council convenes to discuss and decide on matters of national importance, always striving for a balance of power and maintaining a pragmatic approach to the Kingdom's safety and prosperity. Despite its foundation in disparate and fiercely nationalist ideologies, Atlas has emerged as a Kingdom dedicated to progress, unity, and innovation. The scars of the past remain buried beneath the snows of the Intermarium region, but the people of Atlas look forward to a future where their collective efforts may lead to a lasting peace and prosperity for all. In conclusion, the governance of Atlas is a testament to the power of unity and the pursuit of progress. The resilience and determination of the various nationalist groups that helped create the Kingdom have left a lasting legacy on the government, shaping it into a technologically advanced and modern society capable of not only withstanding but also thriving in the inhospitable world of Remnant.

Section 9: The Formation of Menagerie and the Fate of Other Regions Menagerie, the island sanctuary created for the Faunus following the resolution of the Human-Faunus war, indeed came into being as a result of coordinated efforts among the Kingdoms. In an attempt to create a lasting peace, it was decided that providing the Faunus with a safe haven would be the ideal solution. Deporting the Faunus who survived the war to the former lands of Japan and the Korean Peninsula made geographical sense, given their proximity to the existing Kingdoms and the widespread devastation these regions already faced. Menagerie was established as an autonomous region where Faunus could live and rebuild their lives, away from the prejudices and friction that had caused the war in the first place. The Kingdoms, especially Mistral, played an active role in ensuring the well-being of the Faunus by providing resources and assistance to Menagerie during its formative years. This effort to establish a new homeland for the Faunus proved fruitful, and Menagerie gradually became a thriving, multicultural society, fostering coexistence and understanding between humans and Faunus. As for Indochina, India, Iran, and Pakistan, the nuclear holocaust left each region in a state of ruin, further exacerbated by the emergence of new and aggressive Grimm. However, the humans and Faunus inhabiting these regions were not ones to easily submit. In the ashes of Indochina, Mistral sought to restore the Empire of Vietnam, ruled by the Nguyen dynasty. This decision was political and strategic, as it would secure Mistral's southern borders while providing a historical ally with whom they shared a deeply rooted cultural connection. Through this revival, the Empire of Vietnam emerged as a vassal state of the Kingdom of Mistral. India, Iran, and Pakistan, each bearing the brunt of nuclear devastation, found their lands and populations diminished. Nonetheless, they managed to form a loose coalition of decentralized city-states, each maintaining control over their territories with fierce independence. As the nightmare of the world's collapse started to fade, these city-states began forging alliances and trade agreements with the Kingdoms, growing stronger through cooperation. In conclusion, the formation of Menagerie and the efforts of the Kingdoms to stabilize and rebuild the world went hand in hand. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of humans and Faunus that the remnants of pre-war societies managed to survive and, in some cases, thrive against all odds. While the world remains scarred by the violence and destruction of the past, these communities' perseverance offers a beacon of hope for a future where all of humanity and Faunus can coexist in peace.

Section 10: The Post-Menagerie Transformation of Japan The creation of Menagerie in regions, including the Japanese Home Islands and the Korean Peninsula, brought forth significant changes that altered the identity and societal makeup of Japan. After the Faunus were deported to the area, existing Japanese communities faced the challenge of integrating a new population, rich with diverse cultures and experiences, into their own society. Given the severe conditions of post-apocalyptic Japan, many people were receptive to the idea of a power shift, ultimately leading to a successful version of the 'Showa Restoration,' the previously failed coup attempt of February 26, 1936. This new government, fueled by a desire to survive and rebuild, centralized power and initiated drastic reforms in their society, focusing on establishing cooperation and unity between humans and Faunus. In achieving its transformation, the region retained certain aspects of its historical identity while embracing Menagerie's new role. Among the Japanese, their homeland is still referred to as Nihon or Nippon, while some choose to use Yamato in more traditional contexts. This practice preserves their ancient heritage and maintains a feeling of national pride. After establishing stability and unity within Menagerie, the government and people turned their attention to reclaiming lost territories, such as the Sakhalin Islands, the Kuril Islands, and Taiwan. The Menagerie government, in conjunction with the Kingdoms, orchestrated a series of strategic campaigns that focused on regaining control and re-establishing Japanese influence in these territories. Diplomatic efforts, military action, and economic resurgence were instrumental in securing these areas as part of the revitalized Menagerie. In conclusion, the formation of Menagerie in the lands of Japan and the Korean Peninsula led to a remarkable transformation. What was once a past filled with division and conflict has now become a future characterized by unity, cooperation, and prosperity. Japan and Menagerie have become shining examples of societies that, through resilience and determination, can emerge from the ashes of destruction and forge a new identity grounded in acceptance and understanding.

Section 11: The Governance of Menagerie and the Role of Beladonnas As Menagerie evolved and integrated diverse populations, including the Faunus and the Japanese, the governing structure adapted to accommodate the unique challenges of this new society. The traditional House of Yamato, with its long-standing ties to the land and people, remained the imperial family of Japan. However, their role shifted more toward a symbolic and unifying presence. Recognizing the need for a collaborative approach to governance, Menagerie established a parliamentary system, which included representatives from both human and Faunus communities. This parliament worked closely with the House of Yamato, maintaining the imperial family's cultural significance and influence over the nation. The Beladonnas, a respected and prominent Faunus family, held significant sway in Menagerie's political landscape. Their dedication to the cause of Faunus and their advocacy for peaceful coexistence between humans and Faunus earned them the admiration and support of their people. Drawing inspiration from Japan's historical leadership structure, the Beladonnas assumed a role akin to the Shoguns of old, though with adaptations to better fit Menagerie's contemporary society. As the new Shoguns of Menagerie, the Beladonnas acted as an intermediary between the imperial family and the parliament. Their tasks involved overseeing military and security matters, contributing to diplomatic negotiations, and acting as key advisors to the House of Yamato. Despite their elevated status, the Beladonnas retained their humility and dedication to their constituents, a trait that solidified their popularity and respect in Menagerie. In conclusion, Menagerie adopted a balanced governance structure that combined elements from its diverse cultural roots, such as Japanese traditions and Faunus leadership. The unique collaboration between the House of Yamato, the parliamentary system, and the venerable Beladonnas paved the way for a harmonious and prosperous society, placing Menagerie's best interests at the forefront of their collective mission.