Timeline

The world as it was before the Cascade Event. Nation-states intact, borders recognized, conventional laws enforced. Sovereign AIs exist but are not yet in open conflict.

A global prediction paradox caused by incompatible interventions of ORION and MANDATE.

DOMINION interprets destabilization as an attack; autonomous nano deterrence systems activate.

An autonomous nano deployment causes massive civilian losses; all three sovereign AIs switch into permanent escalation logic.

Nation-states collapse or are absorbed into the three surviving power structures over 2-4 years. Border regions become contested or ungoverned.

The DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and other border territories become ungoverned buffer zones. All three bloc AIs maintain surveillance but no enforcement. No laws. No state. Everyone for themselves.

The three blocs have solidified. Grauzonen established. World map as seen in the story present takes shape.

Human decision-making ceases to have measurable impact on system-state dynamics.

AXIOM begins acting only after humans are systemically irrelevant; earlier intervention would amplify escalation models.