Long a dream of generals in Marcusburg, the standard is a magic formula in which the Great Republic's military capabilities would on paper equal those of the next three countries combined - that is, Gorditas, Lindsholm, and Rattanjeetland.

Most of the militarization has occurred in the northeastern Athodyd province which neighbours Gorditas and Zimbabmei. Reports are that four new superbases have been constructed, greatly increasing the country's air, missile, and biochemical capacity.

However the development caused a huge ruckus in the Fletplase, the Marcusburg parliament. The ruling Liberal party joined forces with opposition parties and questioned the Prime Chancellor over the need for such a huge militarization.

Many accused the Prime Chancellor of siding with generals in the cabinet and of taking the country down an unnecessary hawkish path that may threaten world stability.

In response, the Prime Chancellor stood before the Hall of Affiliates and proclaimed, "Look before you, the Mapp has fallen into a dark age. Countries stand on the verge of collapse all around and many are now in disrepair and decay. Marcusburg needs the strength and conviction to provide the leadership required to revitalize the Mapp. And I believe that military power is what's needed to make our voice heard. Let us hope we never have to use our newfound capabilities."

But the deputies didn't buy that argument and passed a motion condemning the militarization campaign. Opinion polls on national networks show that approval for the Prime Chancellor immediately fell by five percentage points. Meanwhile, the country's central bank is also expressing concern, stating that the treasury has taken a big hit as a result of the Three Power Standard.

However, the greatest fallout appears to be from the international community. Although no comment has been made, many observers expect nothing but negative feedback. But if the Prime Chancellor is right, there will be no fallout because the Mapp has already plunged into a dark age where decaying and decrepit countries simply do not care.