Once more, I welcome you to The Will of Revenge! In the last chapter, we briefly visited Zorzal and his fellows in their hiding place and we've seen the slow preparations for the Offworld Storm maneuvers, with machinations behind the curtain slowly starting to unravel. What will this all end with? Soon, the answer will appear.
But now, before we start, reviews.
To Supreme Supra: Thank you as always, my friend.
Okay, with that done, let's get to it.
Chapter 4
May 9, 2166
16:43
New Araluen, Araluenian Colonization Zone, Taurus III
New Araluen, the capital of Araluenian C.Z., was the third biggest city on the planet, with over one 1,200,000 people living in it. Although not as important as Soutlandian Leender or Skandian Erak City, it was a true jewel in Araluenian crown, being the capital of fourth biggest C.Z., which controlled two thirds of smallest continent of the planet and several big islands in the West, with small piece of land on the biggest continent.
In city's spaceport, several cargo vessels operated by still small, yet capable, Araluenian Royal Navy were currently resting on the grounds, with their cargo holds opened, letting thousands of soldiers and hundreds of vehicles leave their insides. Soldiers of 'King Duncan' Mechanized Brigade and 'Baron Arald' Infantry Battalion, as well as two thousand Royal Rangers, were standing in formations, waiting for further orders.
Lieutenant Colonel Will Treaty, representative of Royal Araluenian Armed Forces and one of Ranger Corps commanders, stood on the side, watching all of this happening with satisfied smile on his face.
"How long before everyone will be ready to go?"he asked his companion.
Major Madelyn Altman, Will's second-in-command, former apprentice and heir to Araluenian throne, looked at the tablet in her hands checked some information.
"According to the information from the commanders, we have our forces disembarked in 89%."she said."All Rangers are on the ground, as well as 'BA' Battalion. Only 'KD' Brigade is still aboard."
"I hope they will be ready soon."Saying that, Will stretched his back."I just want to get to the General Staff and lay down a bit."
"You're getting old."Maddie said with smirk.
"You're the one to talk?"Will risen his eyebrow."We're all getting old. And the last two decades surely accelerated that process."
"True."princess nodded.
Araluen went through a pretty hard period following the demise of Alantians. Country was left plundered and scarred, following the liberation. Many people died and a period of hunger touched the country. Fortunately, with humanitarian help of UNSA and it's allies, it quickly stood back up and became one of the leading countries on Flareian political stage.
Yet, Will still couldn't believe in several things that happened. Many people which he knew, which shaped his life and himself, were gone. King Duncan. Baron Arald. Halt. If not for these people, he wouldn't be here today. This is why he himself helped funding a special monument, which stood in Castle Araluen, as a memorial to all taken by the Alantians and Saderans.
And when all of this was done, he quickly helped, Cassandra, Gilan and Horace in building new Araluenian military and country as a whole. He was part of the queen's inner circle and although it had several enemies, it was mostly accepted by the society.
"Could you believe it's already fifteen years since all of that went down?"Maddie asked.
"Yeah. Pretty hard to believe."Will nodded."If you think about it, the time when we were normal Rangers, doing our duty, isn't that far away."
"Halt would've been proud if he seen what you and Gilan made of the Ranger Corps."
"Or he would rather mumble and grumble a lot about how it shouldn't be this way."
"But he knew, that with UNSA now in play, new things were needed."
"True."
They observed the disembarking for few more minutes in silence.
"Good to see you here."a sudden voice said.
The two quickly turned around and smirked, seeing the man approaching them.
"Didn't expect to meet you here."Will said.
"But it is a nice surprise, Hal."Maddie said.
Captain Hal Mikkelson, a Skandian-Araluenian leader of Skandian military's Heron Special Operations Squad, stood in front of the two Rangers and shook hands with them.
"What are you doing here?"Will asked.
"Simple."Hal threw up his arms."Me and all of Heron are going to also take part in the maneuvers."
"Oh, really?"Maddie mused."I thought that you only have to look pretty on Skandian parades?"
"Don't you forget what we're all capable of."Hal smirked.
Probably everyone on Gernea knew. Started as the Heron Brotherhood, a bunch of outcasts in Skandian capital city, named after Hal's ship, they won a competition for young crews and received recognition from Oberjarl at the time, Erak. However, due to some circumstances, they were forced to go after pirates, which stole Andomal, sacred Skandian artifact. They succeeded and became heroes in their country. Following that, they helped numerous people across the Gernean continent, becoming even more famous. They even crossed the so-called 'Endless Ocean' and discovered a new land, which they kept in secret…until it turned out, that except of native tribes, said continent was home for Alantian cities. When War of Flare Prime was over and knowledge of that new continent became widely known across Flare Prime, to evade any troubles, it was declared 'neutral territory' by UN.
With Skandia joining United Nations and proceeding modernization of their military, newly proclaimed Heron SOS became the trademark of the modernization, as they were the first to receive the UN-made equipment, including their personal spaceship, which they of course named Heron.
"And also, I heard that you came already."Hal continued."So I came to see if I will get the chance to see you."
"I hope you're satisfied?"Will asked.
"I am."captain nodded."So, how is it going?"
"We're almost completely done."Maddie replied."After that, we're gonna wait in the barracks for the next few days and then, after getting completely ready, we will go to the maneuvers' grounds."
"Always ready, it seems."Hal stated.
"Always."Maddie agreed.
"By the way, what about the rest of the Heron? Are they here too?"Will asked.
"No, they stayed in Erak City."Hal replied."I just took a dropship and came here."
"I have an idea."princess said suddenly."Why don't we go out to eat something in the city? We have time after all."
"I would love to."
Will frowned.
"I guess I have to come with you, right?"he asked.
"Of course!"Maddie and Hall said in sync.
Older Ranger sighed.
"I guess my back isn't getting any rest anytime soon…"
"Hey, it's not that bad."Hal said.
Next, he simply hit Will in the back. Ranger almost fell over.
"You're getting old."Hal stated.
"Can it already?"Will gritted through his teeth.
Hal and Maddie laughed.
"Okay, finish you're job and in the meantime, I'll go and wait for you. See you later."Hal said and walked away.
Maddie waved to him and looked at Will.
"You're really having a good time, don't you?"he asked.
"Indeed."Maddie replied.
Next, they continued to overlook the unloading of the forces. When it was done, they sent soldiers to the barracks and they themselves joined Hal and went to spend some time in the city.
May 9
09:23
1st Armored Legion Training Grounds
Green canvas, forming a makeshift roof over a trench dug on top of the highest hill in the area, was fluttering, moved by the wind. The air was filled with the smell of freshly cut trees, which were used to make the sides of the trench.
This apparently idyllic environment hid the staff of 1st Armored Legion. Officers gathered at the binoculars watched the developing armored offensive. Although tanks they used were seen as some of the quietest, the sound of forty of them moving forward just two hundred meters away from them could completely drown all conversations.
General Klausus Ho Margas barely stopped himself from cursing, when he saw, that two machines almost rammed each other, trying to evade burned corpse of Erecan J-I-83 armored personnel carrier, which was a training target for numerous generations of Erecan tank crews.
"Side numbers 5122 and 2134."He nodded at a staff officer standing next to him."Company's commander gets reprimand for badly training his crews and…"Sudden cloud of fumes made him cough."…tank commanders get a week in the solitary. Ukkh!"he finished, trying to catch the air.
Meanwhile, the sound of tank threads disappeared in the distance, while shapes of infantry fighting vehicles appeared on the horizon. Assault of armored fist was supposed to be supported by mechanized infantry. Over fifty vehicles, forming a cohort, moved through the tank ruts, following the spearhead. This time, everything went swiftly.
Satisfied Margas allowed himself for a second cigarette today. He pulled out a crumpled package from his pocket. Tissue inside was hiding a special kind of tobacco, used by Erecans as medicine. For Humans, it was more of a standard stimulant. Captain lighting his cigarette made an uneasy expression.
"Yeah, I know."Margas said, breathing in deeply. Reminder of approaching debriefing of all combat commanders in the General Staff ruined his mood a bit.
As the rumors were saying, Oprichnina officers started sniffing in the military. Some said, that it was because some soldiers started having doubts about some things. And it couldn't be like that. Loyalty was number one policy of the Sons of Sadera's army. Black thoughts were quickly removed by the sound of engines. From over a far, slightly foggy, wall of forest, two Erecan-made PI-904 dropships, with SoS's markings, were flying. With their heavily armored hulls, they were often called 'flying tanks', although for Margas, they looked like some weird creatures.
When they also vanished far away, general threw the ember away and looked at the officers surrounding them.
"Time to sum it up, gentlemen. As the legion's commander, I can see some shortcomings."he extended the last word to make it sound threateningly. Colonel Kelius, commander of the cohort, stood in front of him and gulped."It's mainly about you."
Now, there was no doubt, who will be punished.
"Of course, my lord!"
"More time for training, less in the barracks!"
Firm statement of the general sounded a bit absurd. Although they were preparing for years, the still held most of their fuel in special storage facilities, with only occasional replenishments from Erecans.
Seeing, that he might have went too far, Margas turned to his adjutant:
"All outstanding ones are to be awarded with additional passes."
He didn't have to add, that passes will also be given to SoS's inner circle members and known Oprichnina cooperators.
"And I want to have your reports on my desk by the dusk."
Officers stood on attention, when general Klausus Ho Margas, with his inseparable adjutant, went to a car standing some distance away.
Wide front of the tank broke a small tree, growing near copse covering a small pond, or rather a big puddle made by tank caterpillars. Here, training grounds went from wide open plain to dense forest. That way, their movement was limited to some routes. Staff's observation point was left far back.
Training was not over yet. After parade part, the time for real training came. Alarm declared around 0400 in the morning was not a surprise. The spring cycle of trainings was known to happen two days prior starting and officers didn't try to hide it.
Sergeant Decimus Sedvis, commander of one of the tanks, looked at the map on his screen, which irritated him. Moved here straight from NCO training a month ago, he was still not well accustomed enough with the area to work without it. When he followed the platoon's commander, it was ahrd to get lost. Troubles could start now.
"AA gun on the right!"scream in 1st Platoon's commander helmet's earphones scared away the black thoughts from Decimus' head.
"Crews, open fire!"voice of centuria's commander was slightly muffled by the bang inside of the vehicle.
After a while, three spelf-propelled Nakijia-11 AA guns standing near the forest, were surrounded by white smoke from grenades thrown by the observers following the centuria.
"Now forward! Don't extend the centuria, or I'll tear your legs from your ass."captain's suggestion was clear and simple.
Driver-mechanic from Decimus's crew, one of the best in the entire legion, slightly stalled on the turn to join the rest of the platoon a while later.
Forest was not wide here. After three hundred meters, tanks again found themselves in the open field.
"Attention! 1st and 2nd Platoons will go forward, 3rd turns right. Understood?"
"Yes, sir!"platoon commanders confirmed in the earphones.
From a map, used by Decimus Sedvis, it appeared, that their platoon had to take a position near a sizable lake. Surrounding area was wet, so it was easy to sink the vehicle in unmarked swamp.
"Oh, they won't pat our heads for that."Decimus sighed, looking at the map.
"Enemy repair base in front of us."a surprise was heard in commander's voice. Such nice target didn't happen always."Spread the platoon and fire!"
Fountains of mud and dirt thrown up by the threads limited the visibility and only now did Decimus notice a field repair-technical base of imaginative enemy. Undefended positions were easy prey and ridding the enemy of it's back line was a good way to limit his possibilities.
"Like during an actual war."mechanic Jeos Werius looked mesmerized from his place, what a well trained unit performing a surprise attack could do.
"Nothing to get happy about, you won't get the pass anyway."simple statement from gunner Aulus Maris quickly spoiled everyone's moods.
"You can always try and become Emperor's friend."Decimus' turned thoughts of all crew into words.
During this month, they already met each other pretty well and got fond of each other, so they could allow themselves for such statements.
"Crews, there is a clearing two leagues in front of us."Order of their lieutenant gave them hope for a short rest.
Sun, which which was shyly leaving the cloud cover, was now covered by the masses of cumuli, from which rain started pouring. Gentle noise of water on the armor soon changed into loud rhythm like machine gun staccato.
Clearing, after closer look, turned out to be a wide glade, covered by fallen trees, among which soldiers of engineering platoon were walking. Sight of white smoke over the field kitchen quickly reminded everyone how hungry they were. Rain stopped as fast as it started.
"To the through!"
Order didn't need to be repeated. Jumping out of their vehicles, tank men of 3rd Platoon saw the rest of their centuria. Mutual back patting was without and sound of talks was silenced only by the sight of approaching APC with white flag of training observers.
"Centuria, attention!"
Reluctantly leaving their bowls of grub, tank crews stood in a straight line, watching the approaching staff officers.
"Equal! Attention! Major, captain Julius reports centuria…"
"Okay, okay, you did spectacularly."major's satisfied eyes were shining behind his glasses."At ease!"
Sound of feet hitting the ground was heard.
"Our legion smashed the enemy in resolute charge. You gained additional points for finding a gap in enemy lines and exploiting it."Major stopped to smile and continued."This is why you will be directed…to help our hard working Erecan allies in their farming tasks."
Smiles vanished. The perspective of spending the next few weeks in scorching sun, among strange wheat-like plants and farm animals, was like a cold shower even for experienced soldiers.
May 10
12:00
In front of SoS General Staff
Car park in front of the big, gray building in governmental district of the city never seen so much cars before. Several car marks from various corners of the Dominion were visible here, all with plates informing, that they serve the SoS. Most of them were simple roadsters, but the sight of big, black limo meant, that the highest one in hierarchy was going to attend the meeting too.
In front of the entrance stood two guards in gala uniforms. Their stone faces looked like made out of granite and their polished boots could deflect stars, if it wasn't the middle of the day.
From a simple car, a person in form of general Herm Fule Maio emerged, dressed in his best uniform for the occasion. Fighting with resilient door lock and cursing under his breath, he didn't notice an approaching shadow.
"Herm, you old goat! You're still driving that piece of junk?"Friendly back pat, which could knock out anyone's shoulder, only made Herm wince.
"Marquis, better go patting horses. You're almost forty and you're behaving like a spoiled brat."
Colonel Marquis Calasta, commander of Royal Cohort, a unit responsible for protecting all of SoS facilities in the city and on the planet, didn't haste, seeing, that he wasn't able to scare his friend.
"You also have jokes the same as always. Hey, don't get mad."
"I'm not mad, I just can't close this goddamn door."
"Leave it. Look how many Wolves are there. Nobody will steal it."
It was at this point, that Herm noticed an awful lot of men in black uniforms, wearing a wolf badge on their chests.
"I thought these were your men?"his asking look turned on Marquis.
"This party is guarded by someone else."
Presence of Oprichnina could mean only one thing: this meeting was really important for the Emperor. He expected this meeting to be very important for their future plans, but it was just now, that Herm realized, that instead of casually talking about everything, they might be met with hours long rant.
"I heard they removed Polianus and Wenus."Marquis' words surprised Herm.
These two were real legends. They served in Imperial Army when Zorzal was still a little kid shitting in diapers. They won numerous campaigns for the former Empire and were some of the most loyal people you could meet. So what the hell did they do to anger the Emperor?
"What are they doing now?"Herm asked.
"I heard they're helping in knitting the uniforms."
Which could mean that either they were really doing that…or that they will be found with snapped necks the next day.
Great assembly hall in which the meeting had to take place was on the ground floor and entrance to it was guarded by two Oprichnina operatives. When the two entered inside, they were greeted by the sound of quiet conversations. They quickly recognized some more important officers, but were also surprised to see some newly promoted. It seemed, that Emperor was quickly replacing newly removed men.
"Is this the generational change of guard?"Herm thought, suddenly feeling very young and perky.
In this meeting, over forty officers were participating and today, they were all sitting at a long table, instead of sitting in rows in front of a podium. This already was a novelty and gave things to think about.
"Welcome, friends."said the voice that everyone knew. Emperor Zorzal entered the room and quickly made his way towards the seat at the very top of the table. As always, he cared about his proud posture as a statesman.
Gathered quickly stood up. Sign with a hand allowed them to sit back down.
"General Maio, you can begin."
Chief-of-staff stood up, opened his inseparable briefcase and pulled out some pieces of paper, as well as a tablet. He came up to the screen, turned on by one of the security officers and was given a laser pointer. He quickly cleared his throat.
"First of, I would like to thank everyone that gathered today for this very important meeting."he said confidently."As you know, this might be our last meeting, before we're ready to finally fulfill our destiny. Now, I can surely say, that we made all necessary preparations and are ready to reenact our plan."
Murmurs went through the room, as excited young officers just couldn't wait for it to finally happen. For years they were told, that reclaiming their ancestral homeworld would elevate them to the ranks of gods and will make them heroes that will be cherished for centuries to come.
Zorzal lifting his hand quickly silenced all voices.
"Please, continue."he said.
Herm nodded and looked at the papers in his hands.
"For the last fifteen or so years"he started"we've been hiding on this colony, with the allowance of Emperor Jikai of Erecan Dominion. By this time, we received enormous support from Erecans as well as our 'other' allies. With numerous advanced arms systems, we built an army more powerful than anything ever seen before on our planet."
Right then, the photos presenting numerous equipment, as well as the soldiers, of Sons of Sadera appeared on the screen. Most of them were photos from the trainings, some were from their normal life, while others were from numerous parades they participated on Ereca, Erecan homeworld. All of that gave out an aura of power.
"However, there are few things we have to discuss, before we're ready to reenact out plan."general continued."As you know from the information given to us by our intelligence…"Here he pointed at general Cicero Uo Havenius, commander of SoS's intelligence service, which sat next to the Emperor."…we were able to learn a lot about the abilities and capabilities of our enemies."
Photos of SoS's soldiers were then replaced by a new bunch, which looked more like taken from hiding. They too showed soldiers, vehicles and ships, but with different markings and colors on them.
"Our enemy, the so-called 'Andromeda Branch of United Nations', are all countries on Flare Prime."general said."Just like us, they used this one and a half decade to arm and retrain themselves with newly acquired technologies and doctrines. One thing I can say for sure, is that although we all did our best to get ready for this moment, our enemies didn't waste time either."
"I understand, general."Zorzal said."But will this be any problem for our forces during the invasion?"
Herm looked into his papers and shook his head.
"Not at all, Your Highness."he said."From what we gathered, they have a lot of modern weaponry, however we have one serious advantage over them."
"And that would be?"general Margas, sitting on Zorzal's left, asked.
"We have numerical advantage over the enemy."Herm replied."Here, I would like to give voice to general Havenius."
Havenius nodded and signaled to his assistant to give him the papers. Man gave the general said documents and returned to his place, while his commander looked at the papers in his hands and cleared his throat.
"From all information we gathered, enemy armies are not as numerical as their allies in the Milky Way."Havenius said."While in Milky Way, armies come in millions, armies of Flare Prime are only coming in thousands, with the biggest military being at the disposal of Kingdom of Falmart, at almost seven hundred thousand. Other military forces reach barely six hundred thousand. I have to point out, that according to our sources on Flare Prime, in case of war, Kingdom of Falmart itself is able to mobilize additional two millions soldiers, but it needs time for that."
Hearing the name 'Kingdom of Falmart' Zorzal winced. Truly, his sister couldn't choose worse name for their country.
Seeing the sudden unsureness on Havenius' face, Zorzal nodded, telling him to continue. General cleared his throat again and changed the papers.
"Now, we shall go into what they have at their disposal in space."he said."Once more, KoF dominates, with their fleet of over one hundred and fifty ships, based in several stations and spaceports across all of the controlled star systems."
"Is this fleet a danger to us?"legatus Cassius No Polianus, commander-in-chief of SoS' Navy, asked.
"Answer is again 'no'."Havenius calmed him down."Exactly 1/3 of that fleet consists of utility and civilian ships, like transports, repair ships or tankers. Not to mention, that biggest danger for our fleet is their ten Heavy Cruisers and two Dreadnaughts, all based in Flareian System. Enemy fleet possesses no Carriers whatsoever, although it is rumored, that they are preparing to purchase one from the country of France in Milky Way. Other fleets are not as big, as they don't posses any heavy or larger ships."
"Okay, now allow me to ask."general Olo Kerrel, commander of the 2nd Armored Legion, said."I know it's not my field of knowledge, but what if these ships will actually turn out to be dangerous to our fleet?"
"Don't worry."Havenius smirked."We got it covered."
"That's all I needed to know."Kerrel said.
"Are you sure we don't have to worry about other countries?"Zorzal asked."After all, there were numerous countries as big as the Empire on our planet. If they are in United Nations, won't they pose a threat to us too?"
"Unlike Sadera or Araluen, which started their modernization even before the war on Flare Prime was over, countries like Temuji, Kubliatan Empire or Xae Jong are not as open for novelties. They do have some modern weaponry in their armies, but are not at the same level as the aforementioned two. Besides, from the very beginning, we were aware, that our main enemy will be the former Empire."
"Alright then. Is that all, Havenius?"Zorzal asked.
"Yes. I give voice back to general Maio."Havenius said.
Herm nodded and turned to the screen again. This time, except of photos, on the screen they saw a stellar map of the area of space controlled by Andromeda Branch. Next, a red dot from Herm's laser pointer appeared on the screen.
"As of now, Andromeda Branch is in control of three star systems, which are considered as 'colonized and during exploitation'. There are also several other star systems, which are currently in phase of being explored and researched. The three main ones are: Flareian System, Narum System and Taurus System. From all these three, Flareian System is the most developed, given it was the first one under AB control. Second is Tuarus System, with one colonized planet and several outposts and stations across it's space or in orbits of other planets. And the Narum System is the least developed one, with planet Narum Prime being the rural colony. According to our estimates, only two million people live on that planet, which is understandable, as the planet is just quarter the size of the planet we're currently on."
"Does this Narum Prime have any strategic significance?"someone asked.
"No. We will not bother with it much."Herm replied."Now, allow me to explain our plan to you."
Saying that, the stellar map was replaced by three separate maps showing the layouts of the three main star systems. Except planets, numerous stations, shipyards and outposts were also marked.
"This is the Maio-Margas Plan, which we developed with general Margas, with some help from our Erecan allies."Herm said, while Margas nodded."This plan, is aimed at destroying enemy combat capabilities and allowing our forces to swiftly move in and finish everything off."
"We're all ears."Zorzal said.
Herm nodded.
"The first phase of the Plan is not exactly a combat one."he said."With help of general Havenius and Erecan aid, we were able to move numerous groups of our agents and saboteurs into enemy territory. They quickly blended with the locals and are currently in hiding, although they already got a 'go' order from us. They're currently moving into positions. Their task is simple: eliminate enemy assets as fast and as much as possible. We mainly hope to cripple their fleets, but if everything goes as planned, we might also deal with enemy leadership and higher ups. We also have a lot of collaborators within enemy governments and this is thanks to them, that we managed to plan this."
"I don't want to be rude, but how big damage will they manage to deal?"another unnamed officer asked.
"Well, enemy military force is too bit for us to completely destroy it…"Herm said."…but as I said, we hope to at least cripple their fleets. Meanwhile, our attacks on enemy ground assets are aimed to provide high enough confusion to make enemy unable to assess the situation."
"Okay, okay."Emperor nodded."It sounds good so far. What next?"
Herm pointed the laser pointer at the map and several arrows appeared on maps presenting Narum and Taurus systems. They all moved in different directions, with some stopping next to space installations, while others moved further, entering even Flareian System.
"Our next move, is to exploit the confusion caused by the attacks and move our forces in. Our troops and fleets are to move in and occupy enemy space stations, outposts and other installations. With them, we will control all space transit across the three systems and will be able to easily cut off all remaining enemy forces on the ground."
"Will taking all of that will be easy?"another officer asked.
"Enemy holds little to no troops on their space stations."Herm quickly replied."Occupying them shouldn't be difficult, same with the colonized moons of gas giants in Flareian System. They won't be a big deal."
Next, Emloy, Taurus III and Narum Prime were highlighted.
"With space firmly in our hands, we will take care of three most important enemy planets."Herm said."The least trouble we will have with Narum Prime. It was already decided, that before our troops will be sent on the surface, we will perform orbital bombing, aimed to eliminate any form of enemy military presence. Then, we will proceed to land troops on the surface and occupy the major population centers."
"If what you're talking about this planet is true, then it shouldn't be hard."Zorzal said.
"We hope the same, Your Highness."Herm nodded.
Next, he pointed at Taurus III.
"Tuarus III is a different story. We're not planning on bombing the planet."he continued.
"Why?"another officer asked.
"Simple. The planet is twice the size of Flare Prime and Earth, but has a population ten times smaller than planet Emloy. We decided, that it would make a perfect supply hub, through which we could resupply our forces. This is why we decided to keep it mostly intact. For this, we will perform a normal invasion to take it over. I already appointed 1st and 2nd Armored Legions to perform this tasks, alongside several other units."
"Are we expecting a lot of resistance there?"Margas asked after he glanced at Kerrel.
"No. Not at all."Herm replied."Planet's garrison consists only of fifty thousand soldiers, spread around several bases. Not to mention, that the biggest military force on the planet is Skandian-Nordian Joint Corp, at thirty five thousand troops. Rest are just some units the size of regiments, cohorts or centurias. If our estimates are good, planet should be completely in our hands after more or less two weeks."
Margas and Kerrel nodded.
"And finally…"Herm said, as Emloy filled the screen."…planet Emloy. This is the second most populated planet under Andromeda Branch's control. However, it is mostly desert, with the biggest cities and towns spread across vast areas. Here, orbital bombardment is also out of the question. All three invasions will commence simultaneously."
"Why?"some colonel asked."Why don't bomb it to oblivion? The planet is just a big obstacle, it's better to just destroy it."
Silence fell in the room, as everyone looked at each other and then at Zorzal. Colonel looked at all of this confused.
"What?"colonel asked.
"We're not gonna bomb the planet"Cassius said"because it was the Emperor who demanded the planet to be left mostly intact."
Hearing that, colonel paled immediately and looked a Zorzal, which was surprisingly calm. He quickly bowed his head.
"Forgive me, Your Highness…"he said through squeezed throat.
"I will let it slide for now."Zorzal replied."I ordered this, because I was informed, that my treacherous brother was made 'governor' of the planet. This is why I want to have him looking at his estate burning before his eyes, before I cut his head off."
All officers nodded in agreement. Herm, in the meantime, looked back at the screen.
"And the final phase of our plan…"he said, as Flare Prime itself took over the screen."Flare Prime itself. With all enemy territories beyond the planet's spinning axis, we will commit all forces at our disposal to invade the planet. We expect remaining enemy naval forces to put up a fight, but we don't expect a lot of resistance. Same goes with enemy ground forces. After winning the space battle, with so much losses and demoralized, we expect enemy forces to quickly surrender."
Everyone listened to the plan and watched the timer, which at the same time was showing the days passing and with the second Flare Prime was marked with SoS' colors, it stopped at thirty days.
"Thirty days…"Zorzal said."So you expect all of that to end in a month?"
"Pretty much yes."general Margas said."With our back room, we're certain it should go well."
"And when does the operation start?"general Kerrel asked.
"We plan to give a green light for the operation within about two weeks. It's the time, in which we need to deal with some details, like what support are Erecans willing to give us or to move our forces to their starting positions. But then, we will be ready to strike."
"However, we should discuss two things, that you might have forgotten."Havenius said.
All eyes turned to him.
"What do you mean?"Herm asked.
In response, head of the intelligence pulled out another piece of paper out of nowhere. He handed it to Zorzal, which started reading it.
"According to our contacts within enemy's offices, Taurus III might not be as easy target as you expect."Havenius explained.
"And why would that be?"Herm asked.
"Offworld Storm…"Zorzal read out loud."What is it?"
"It's a series of annual joint exercises performed by numerous nations of Andromeda Branch. It's tenth edition is scheduled to take place on Taurus III, exactly at the time our operations is scheduled to start. Another fifty thousand troops are going to take part in it."
Everyone again looked at Herm and at Margas, too. Both generals gulped, seeing the scolding look of Zorzal.
"Why didn't you tell me this?"Emperor asked.
"I-It's simple…"Herm replied, pulling on his collar."We didn't see it as something important…"
"YOU DIDN'T SEE THAT FACT THAT WE'RE GONNA FIGHT TWICE THE ENEMY FORCES?!"Zorzal shouted at the top of his lungs."WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU?!"
Herm and Margas seemed to shrink, but both quickly regained composure.
"We don't expect these forces to put up much of a fight."Margas stated."They are there only to train, they don't expect to be invaded. They just hope about quickly going home after maneuvers are over."
"So, in your opinion, they won't contribute much?"Kerrel asked.
"No."Herm and Margas said at the same time.
Zorzal squinted his eyes, but nodded.
"Okay, I believe you."He looked at Havenius."And the second thing? There is only about Offworld Storm here."
"Of course."Havenius said."The last thing we have to discuss, is the Intergalactic Gate."
For this, nobody had an answer.
"What do you mean?"Herm asked.
"Isn't that obvious?"Havenius looked surprised."We are well aware, that in case of our invasion, the glorious UNSA will go rushing through the Gate to save their puppets."
"This is of no concern."Margas stated.
"Why?"Zorzal asked.
"We recently talked with our 'other' allies."Herm said."Their military got it all covered. We will not be harassed by the UNSA."
"I hope you're right about it."Zorzal said."Gentlemen. I authorize this plan. Within these two weeks, I want to see all the remaining preparations needed taken care of and I want it to be successful. If not…"
Everyone gulped. Although Zorzal didn't say it, they all heard the threat in his tone.
"We will not fail. You have our promise."Herm said.
"Good."Emperor said."Now. What else is there to discuss?"
Remaining three hours of the meeting were spent on discussing not important matters, such as supplying of units or just organizational things. After that, all commanders returned to their units, while Zorzal, with smirk on his face, returned to his home, thinking about the glory of his upcoming victory.
May 10
22:43
LFS Arcane, Mariana System
A lone freighter was moving through the vacuum of the system, making it's way to the refueling station. After journeying through almost all of Laconian space, a short stop to refuel was needed. After all, they still had one day of the journey ahead of them.
In the ship's cargo hold, two Laconian Marines were doing their routine patrol, walking between the numerous containers stored in here. Some where bigger than others, but all had one thing in common: they all had an emblem of Laconian Armed Forces on them, as the ship was long ago confiscated by the military to use it for 'secret' transports.
"Man, it's so boring."one of the Marines said.
"Ross stop whining."his companion said.
"I will not."Ross stated."What else am I supposed to say when we're just walking around the ship, doing nothing, Logan?"
"We're serving our country."Logan replied.
"I don't know, man. I don't buy all that crap they're telling us in the TV and radio."
Logan looked at his companion with thunder in his eyes.
"Then why did you join the military?"he asked.
"Simple. They're paying good."Ross explained.
Logan searched for something to reply with, but just waved it off and continued walking.
"Let's just get this thing over with."Logan sighed.
"I would be very happy about it."
They continued walking for few more minutes, while Ross was thinking about how did he even end up here. Back on his homeworld, he had only two options: either take over father's car workshop or sign up. And he hated both that old bastard and his workshop, so the choice was simple. After two years of training, here he was, as a soldier of Laconian Marine Corp, under the orders of some 'important general' overlooking some 'Project Pride'. Who the hell came up with that name anyway? What was he supposed to be proud of? Of being tossed around the universe like that? He hoped, that he will at least stay on his planet.
He was about to say this to Logan, when he heard a quiet sound of something resembling…scraping. He quickly turned towards the direction the sound came from and turned on the flashlight. Light lit up the alley between two containers, as Ross searched for the source of the sound.
"What is it?"Logan asked.
Marine looked at into the darkness for few more seconds. After not seeing anything, he just turned off his flashlight.
"Nothing."Ross replied."I think I misheard."
"I bet."Logan smirked under his helmet."Let's go. Just one more round and we're leaving."
"Sure."
Two Marines then proceeded to continue on their patrol.
At the same time, behind one of the containers, agent Theo Maxilos of ICTA, sighed deeply.
"That was close."he said.
He slowly leaned from behind his cover and looked at the place, where Laconian Marines stood just few seconds ago. It was fourth time he was almost caught. If it continues like that, he will finally run out of luck.
But when he accepted this mission, he knew the risks that came along with it. And the reason he was here? Simple. Several days ago, leader of Tertan Protectorate made a call to UN General Secretary and told her her suspicions about Laconians. UN immediately started watching what's happening on the other side of the border more carefully and it didn't take long for them to notice a strange intensification of freight movement on one of less frequented hyperspace routes. And what was more suspicious, all ships were going in the same direction.
Knowing, that when something doesn't add up, UN decided to put the gears to work and quickly proned ICTA to move. Maxilos was chosen for this task by director Sanjrani himself. He and director have been through a lot during the GGW and as Sanjrani said:
"There is nobody else I trust more than you."
Also, because Maxilos was regarded as one of the best, if not THE best, agent agency had at it's disposal. He was trained in all forms of espionage and infiltration tactics, so it wasn't hard for him to sneak onto this ship during one of it's stops. He's been hiding here for a two days already and by sheer luck he wasn't found yet. Laconians had a really tight security on this ship and this only made it more suspicious.
"Okay, I just have to stay here for some time more and we'll be at the place."he whispered."I just hope all of this will be worth it…"
He came up to the passageway between the containers, the one two Marines used to walk by earlier, and after making sure, that nobody is watching, he quickly proceeded to move to a container he used as his hideout, as he was on a lookout just now.
Now, he had to wait. Because who knew, what are their brothers from Laconia hiding deep within their space?
XXX
And this is where we're gonna end for today. Zorzal is really keen on returning the favor for what happened fifteen years ago, doesn't he? But I guess this is just how it us. Also, UNSA and Laconia situation is also getting more dived into. Because who knows, when Cold War can go hot, right?
Anyway, this will be it for now. Remember to leave a review, like and favorite. See you again soon!