Footpan Chicken Country, Prime Minister's Office, press conference venue
Camera flashes erupted in a dense storm.
The Footpan Chicken spokesperson wore a dark gray suit.
Standing at the center of the podium, her chin was slightly raised, her eyes carrying the sharpness of something long suppressed finally being unleashed.
Behind her, the Rising Sun flag and the Cabinet flag hung side by side.
"...For a long time, our country has adopted an overly restrained diplomatic posture under the postwar system."
Her voice was steady, yet every word carried an edge.
"However, the times have changed."
She paused, her gaze sweeping over the mass of reporters below.
At last, her eyes settled on the microphone of a Rabbit Nation media outlet in the front row.
"I hereby state clearly: if they are in trouble, then we are in trouble."
The venue fell silent for an instant before erupting into explosive commotion.
The implication of that declaration was clear: Footpan Chicken Country would intervene.
Like a depth charge thrown into the still waters of international politics.
Ignoring the chaos below, the Footpan Chicken spokesperson continued:
"Article 9 of the Peace Constitution is not a rope to bind our own hands, but the starting point of our nation's choice of proactive pacifism.
Starting this year, the defense budget will be raised to 3% of GDP to build counterstrike capabilities.
Our country will possess the ability to directly strike enemy bases. In addition..."
She turned slightly as the large screen behind her switched to a map of East Asian military deployments marked with red and blue arrows.
"Our country has reached an agreement with Bald Eagle Nation to expand war deterrence.
The scope of this protective circle will explicitly include the waters surrounding the islands.
Any attempt to alter the status quo will face