863-870
Chapter 863: Humiliation
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Ling Lan only rested for a short while before she walked over to the command center. The situation was currently very volatile, so anything could happen now. Therefore, she must be present to watch over the entire situation.
The command center was no longer empty as there were many people sitting on both sides of the command center. Ling Lan looked at them carefully with squinted eyes, and realized they were regiment commanders from the various mecha clans.
When they saw Ling Lan arriving, they stood up and greeted her.
"What is happening?" Ling Lan took off her military cap and asked Lin Zhong-qing who came beside her immediately.
Lin Zhong-qing took the cap off her hand and whispered back, "They probably knew that the situation around us is very bad currently, so they came here to discuss the issues with you." Little Four didn't allow anyone to go to 250 Ace Mecha Clan's camp, so these people could only wait for her at the command center.
There was a meeting room at the back of the command center, so Ling Lan asked Lin Zhong-qing to invite those people there first. She would join him after she finished her work.
Besides these regiment commanders, there were around 10 people busy with arranging materials and documents in the command center. Han Jijyun and Li Lanfeng were among these people. Han Jijyun saw Ling Lan so he took a document he had prepared and rushed towards Ling Lan.
"Regiment commander, this is the intel we received so far. The situation is very bad." Han Jijyun passed the document over.
"Continue." Ling Lan took the document and flipped through it. At the same time, she asked Han Jijyun to concisely explain the situation. Little Four had already told her about the condition of the base and the other bases when she was on the way here but she still wanted to know more information.
"Based on the replies from Base 012, 014 and 015, some of the bases around them had already been destroyed. Base 008, 010, 011 situated in front of Base 012 are destroyed. Base 017 and 019 situated on the outer border of Base 014 are also destroyed. Base 016 and 018 situated in front of base 015 are destroyed too." Han Jijyun quickly told Ling Lan the main points.
Ling Lan narrowed her eyes. She passed the document back to Han Jijyun and walked to the front of the 3D map in the middle of the command center. She looked at the position of the fallen bases and wondered what Hailiya wanted to do.
"They want to end this war. They want to use these points to break through our defenses on Planet Haijiao," Ling Lan said coldly.
"Yes. At first, they planned to destroy our base, but luckily, we managed to hold them off. Once Base 013 falls into their hands, Base 012, 014, and 015 will follow closely after." The Hailiyan army would be able to attack these three bases from two different sides once Base 013 falls.
"This is not good." Ling Lan raised the pointer stick and pointed to the bases that had fallen. "Our four bases are the only bases left in this area. This side, this side, and that side belonged to Hailiya now. Our enemy can now attack us in all directions. The only fortunate thing was, we have the three bases to help us fight off the enemy coming from three directions."
Han Jijyun thought about this too. That was why he said that they were in a bad situation at the start.
After Ling Lan finished speaking, she looked passed the area where Base 013 was located at. She stared at the middle and western parts of the map with a stern facial expression. She pointed at one empty spot. "That is not the worst thing. I'm also worried that all the other areas are facing the same circumstances." If that's the case, they would be in danger.
Han Jijyun narrowed his eyes. What Ling Lan said was possible. If that was true, they would inevitably die. All the bases that survived this first round of attack, including them, were going to be destroyed soon.
Han Jijyun was in deep thought as his mind worked furiously. He was too optimistic just now. He needed to plan based on the worst-case scenario.
"Base 012, 014, and 015 can't be under independent command anymore," Han Jijyun said sternly. They couldn't afford to lose anyone now. Those bases not being under their control might not be a huge problem in the past but now, it was not a risk they could take.
"We must gather them to form a large base that is able to attack and defend properly." A clear voice sounded behind Ling Lan. It belonged to Li Lanfeng. He too had a document in his hand. He wanted to pass this document to Ling Lan but when he heard what they were discussing, he just decided to just give his suggestion on the matter.
"You noticed it too?" Han Jijyun asked in frustration.
"Based on the strength of the three bases, they are not stronger than those bases that got destroyed. They might even be weaker than them. This proves that our opponents didn't choose who to attack based on the strength of the base. I took a look at those bases that got destroyed." Li Lanfeng pointed to the bases on the map. "First, they split the bases into segmented areas. Then, they would choose the weakest base among the bases in that area. After that, they would send two times the number of mecha operators than what the base has to attack the designated base, and the leftover mecha operators would be tasked to hold the mecha operators from the other bases back. This would prevent the other bases from helping the designated base."
"Based on this, we can tell what Hailiya's plan is. They would choose the weakest base to attack and once this base falls, they would then join the mecha operators at the next weakest base and continue their attacks. The difference in power allowed for such situations to occur. All the bases in some areas got annihilated while for others, one or two bases were left behind. However, these bases are now surrounded by enemies on all sides. Without any external help, it will just be a matter of time before they fall into our enemy's hand." Li Lanfeng told everyone his observation.
"The bases around us are also in this kind of situation. I don't believe that the bases in other areas are totally undamaged." Li Lanfeng looked at Ling Lan. "Plus, regiment commander told us that there is a strong mecha clan attacking us. The mecha operators in this mecha clans are all elite ace and above. Their regiment commander is an imperial operator but he suppressed his ability and used an ace mecha, hoping to use this method to fool everyone. This kind of mecha clan should be an elite ace mecha clan of the country. They wouldn't appear on a small battlefield." Li Lanfeng was serious. "Hailiya had been planning for this battle for a long time for them to send an imperial operator to attack a small base like us. This meant that they have probably sent imperial operators to attack the other bases too. There might even be more imperial operators sent to the other bases."
If 250 Ace Mecha Clan hadn't come to Base 013 and Ling Lan was not an imperial operator, this base would have fallen just like the other bases.
"Are you saying that the bases in the other areas had probably been destroyed?" Han Jijyun knew Li Lanfeng was right but he just couldn't accept this fact.
Li Lanfeng said firmly, "Not probably. They must have been destroyed already. The Federation was not prepared for this battle, so we never had any chance to turn the tides around."
"Thus, we can only plan our actions based on the assumption that our four bases are the only survivors of this battle." Li Lanfeng wouldn't place his hopes on uncertain things.
"Are you making plans in the case that we need to survive for a month while waiting for reinforcements from the Federation?" Han Jijyun was good with schemes too but he was less pessimistic than Li Lanfeng. When he heard what Li Lanfeng said, he understood why Li Lanfeng did what he did.
"One month is enough for the Federation to break through Hailiya's blockade. Our hardest mission is to survive this one month." Li Lanfeng frowned. "As time goes by, the danger around us will get greater." Li Lanfeng hoped that he was just being too pessimistic. The longer other bases stood their ground, the longer they would be safer.
"One month…" Han Jijyun muttered to himself. If the other bases all survived, it wouldn't be hard for them to survive this one month. However, If Li Lanfeng was right and only the four bases survived, they might not even be able to last a single day longer.
Ling Lan listened to the conversation between Li Lanfeng and Han Jijyun while talking to Little Four in her mindscape. Little Four was already controlling the other three bases in the area. The moment Li Lanfeng explained Hailiya's plan, she asked Little Four to control the other three bases' mainframes. If the commanding officers of the other three bases had the foresight and ability, Ling Lan was willing to work with them. She would reveal her trump card, Little Four. But, if she met another commanding officer like Du Mingyi, she would let this commanding officer accompany Du Mingyi.
Ling Lan was not working alone now. She was responsible for the life of everyone in Base 013. She couldn't afford to be hesitant or soft-hearted. This was who Ling Lan was. When she should be vicious, she would be vicious.
"Jijyun, contact the commanding officers of Base 012, 014, and 015. I want to have a video conference with them in five minutes." Ling Lan made her decision so she quickly gave an order to Han Jijyun.
"Yes, regiment commander." Han Jijyun received the order and went to carry it out.
"Lanfeng, thank you," Ling Lan turned and said to Li Lanfeng.
"Why are you thanking me?" Li Lanfeng raised his eyebrows.
"Han Jijyun is an optimistic person. He always thinks on the bright side. It's fine most of the time but on the battlefield… this trait is his weakness." Ling Lan grew up with her friends so she knew what all their weaknesses were.
"Actually, that's not a bad thing. It's better than being too pessimistic like me." Li Lanfeng mocked himself. "However, as an adviser, I must think about the worst-case scenario. If not, there would be loopholes in the plans. I just want him to know this. Even if he couldn't accept it, he mustn't forget this point."
"Since you know it, why don't you self-reflect?" Ling Lan asked him back.
Li Lanfeng was stunned. 'Weren't we talking about Han Jijyun? When did I become the main character?'
"Since you know that you are pessimistic, why not try to think in an optimistic direction?" Ling Lan patted Li Lanfeng's shoulder and said sincerely, "Don't reprimand others but ignore your own flaws." Ling Lan finished speaking and walked towards her office. She was going to wait for Han Jijyun to contact the other three commanding officers for a conference with them.
Li Lanfeng looked at Ling Lan's back thoughtfully? 'Does his Rabbit dislike my pessimistic side?'
At Hailiya's side, a badly injured He'er Li laid on a bed. He looked worse for wear. Luckily, his cockpit was specially designed for top-tier mecha operators. If not, those three shots would have blasted his cockpit opened, killing him instantly.
A few officers just stood beside his bed. One of them was recording He'er Li's accounts of what he saw with his communicator.
"Senior Colonel He'er Li, please confirm what you said is true." The person aimed his communicator at He'er Li.
He'er Li said coldly, "Yes, I confirmed what I said is true."
"Thank you for your cooperation. Senior Colonel He'er Li, have a good rest." The officers left. A few moments after he left, the door of He'er Li's ward opened again.
"Hey, He'er Li. I didn't expect you to fail your mission. I'm in disbelief." A frivolous voice was heard.
He'er Li looked up, and upon seeing what he saw, veins started popping up on his forehead. "Mo Li'er, what are you doing here?"
"I came to look at my old friend. Why are you looking so lonely?" Mo Li'er's words were infuriating. He'er Li almost died from anger.
He'er Li kept a stern face. He didn't want to talk to this person.
"Everyone from God-Killers succeeded in their missions except for you. They want me to ask you what had happened on your end." Mo Li'er retracted his irritating expression and turned serious.
He'er Li kept silent for a few seconds. "There is an imperial operator in Base 013."
"An imperial operator?" Mo Li'er was dumbfounded. "Didn't they say that Base 013 is the weakest base on the frontline?" This was why they sent the weakest person among them, He'er Li, there.
"We were fooled. Not only do they have an imperial operator, they also have more than a hundred elite ace." He'er Li told Mo Li'er everything he knew. He didn't even tell the officer some of this information.
"Base 013 is an interesting base." Mo Li'er touched his chin and smiled.
He'er Li said coldly, "Base 013 is my mission. I'll take care of them." This was his pride as an imperial operator. If he didn't go back and finish his mission, he wouldn't have the face to go back to God-Killers anymore.
"Then, you should recuperate quickly and come back as soon as possible. We only have one month. After we destroy all the other bases and Base 013 is still there, I'm sorry, even if you haven't healed by then, we will take care of it." Mo Li'er shrugged. He didn't care about this but his superiors told him that they must take over Planet Haijiao in one month. If He'er Li wasn't ready for battle then, they would have to help him destroy this base that humiliated the God-Killers' reputation.
"Don't worry, I'll be on time," He'er Li replied indifferently.
"I hope so. Since I know the truth, I'll go back now." Mo Li'er disappeared.
"013, I will personally take revenge for this humiliation you gave me." He'er Li grabbed the bedsheet tightly. He didn't want to see the doubting gazes by anyone else anymore. It was as though his imperial status was fake.
Chapter 864: Conference Meeting Of The Commanding Officers
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Luckily, the commanding officers of Base 012, 014, and 015 were all capable people with foresight. They knew what their main problem was now. They were unable to survive on their own until reinforcements come, so they must work together with the bases nearby. After the end of the conference, Ling Lan made a pact with the three commanding officers, that they would work together and follow a single command.
Ling Lan quickly went to another meeting room after that and communicated what she had discussed to the regiment commanders of the base. She told them about their dire situation and how they might be at the brink of death already. Thus after hearing that, the various mecha clans decided to put down their grudges with each other and cooperate with Ling Lan to prepare for the next battle. Everyone knew that if their base was to be taken over by the Hailiyan army, they would either die in battle or become fugitives. The choice between the two was rather easy, as the Federation had always taught them that it's better to have a glorious death than live shamefully.
No matter how much power they had, they needed to be alive to enjoy it.
Thus, the four bases managed to survive the first week after losing communication with the Federation. There were multiple small skirmishes all throughout the day and a huge battle would occur at an interval of three days. However, just like what Ling Lan had expected, the situation was getting worse and worse for them. Little Four superimposed the signals of the four bases together to lengthen their reach. He scanned a radius of a hundred kilometers from their base and realized that in the entire east side, almost 99% of the bases were destroyed.
Ling Lan ordered Little Four to send the news that there were still four intact bases from the Federation to the entire east side. She wanted to give those mecha operators whose bases were destroyed but managed to stay alive some hope. She wanted Base 013 to become Utopia of these soldiers. These people might just die on their way to Base 013 but having hope was better than living in despair. She just wished that they wouldn't act rashly. They should hide and wait for this darkest moment to be over.
At this moment, at the military headquarters of the Huaxia Federation, the people there couldn't withstand the pressure from the various divisions and the questioning from the government anymore, so they decided to have a video conference with the 23 generals of the 23 divisions.
"Ah Wei, hurry up…" There was a short-haired and well-dressed lady attending the video conference too. She was a news reporter from Internal Military Newspaper, and her name was Wen Qilian. She was an opportunistic person, as ever since she knew that her news agency had a pass to the video conference of the 23 generals, she used all kinds of methods before she finally got this opportunity to attend the conference.
She waved at her assistant and asked him to hurry up. She entered the conference hall at the military headquarters agitatedly. There were already many people in the conference hall. They were all from various news agencies under the military. They would watch the meeting and choose some information to display to the public. This was what the military always did. Anyone that came to attend this conference had their backgrounds checked. They were all soldiers. Yes, although there were reporters, they were qualified soldiers too.
Wen Qilian felt frustrated when she saw that she was a little late. She brought her assistant, Ah Wei, and squeezed through the crowd. The people around her were quite angry at the fact that someone was poking her waist and pushing them aside, but when they saw that she was a lady, they controlled their anger and unwillingly gave some space for her.
Finally, Wen Qilian came to the front of the crowd, and there was a huge screen in front of her. To prevent the reporters from coming too close, sturdy barriers were placed in front of the screen. Fully armed soldiers stood behind the barriers and just looked at them intimidatingly. They were there to remind the reporters to follow orders.
Wen Qilian looked around her and realized most of the people sitting at the very front were ladies. It seemed like the men didn't want to fight with them.
"General Ling Xiao will attend this conference, right?" Wen Qilian suddenly heard a lady speaking in a dreamy tone.
Wen Qilian cheeks twitched uncontrollably. This was a meeting with the generals of the various divisions so General Ling Xiao would definitely attend it. Which news agency sent such an insensible reporter? Although General Ling Xiao was the most handsome and gentle general of the Federation, they shouldn't just stare at him all the time. Plus, this conference would affect the life and death of all the soldiers on Planet Haijiao. How could the lady just have her attention on General Ling Xiao?
Wen Qilian would not admit that she fought so hard for this chance so that she was able to see General Ling Xiao too. After all, it was a rare opportunity to see this kind of close up video.
"All reporters, please turn off your communicators. From this moment onwards, you are only allowed to take photos. No recording, videotaping, and no other methods to record sounds or images are allowed." The rules of this conference were repeated through the speakers in the conference hall. Wen Qilian and the other reporters obediently turned off their communicators. The reporters who came to attend this very exclusive military conference were mostly experienced reporters, so they knew what to do.
One minute later, lasers appeared in the conference hall. They were used to check if the reporters followed the regulations.
Suddenly, the beeping of an alarm was heard and five fully armed soldiers rushed into the crowd to drag a reporter away. Wen Qilian looked at the dragged reporter with disdain. There were always people who wanted to have exclusive content in their articles so they would try to break the rules. The news agency which this reporter worked at would soon be questioned by the military. They might not be able to get any pass to such events in the future.
The inspection lasted for five minutes. No problems were found. Wen Qilian and the other reporters waited patiently for the conference to start.
"Time's up," someone shouted and the grey screen in front of them lit up. The various generals appeared on the screen. The screen was split into three rows. There were nine cubicles in each row. The three marshals appeared on the top row right in the middle. In the middle of the second row, the representative from the military was there.
"Ah! General Ling Xiao!" Ling Xiao appeared in the third row. His gentle aura was gone, revealing the stern and serious side of Ling Xiao. The moment he appeared, all the female reporters exclaimed in a low voice.
"Ah! Isn't that the General of the 13th division, Lieutenant General Qi Yaoyang?" Qi Yaoyang appeared in the 7th cubicles on the second row. He managed to catch the attention of many reporters since he was seated between 70-year-old men.
"Finally, a treat for the eyes." The reporters got tired of looking at the same faces over and over again. Hence, the appearance of Ling Xiao and Qi Yaoyang lightened everyone's mood up.
"I officially announce the start of the conference." The First Marshal appeared in the middle of the first row, announcing the start of the conference.
Chapter 865: Absurd!
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
The 23 generals heard the announcement, but no one spoke. It was just silent.
The Third Marshal knocked the pipe in his hand and smiled coldly. "Since you all dared to vote against the military's decision and force the three of us to appear on behalf of the military, say something then."
Ling Xiao raised his eyebrows slightly. 'Is that sentence directed at me?'
The First Marshal narrowed his eyes. 'This old fogey never forgets to suppress my men, even at a time like this.'
The Second Marshal felt that the silence must be broken so he said, "The generals have voted against the military because they are worried about their men. We can understand your concerns. However, just like what Marshal Yang said, since we decided to have a conference, please speak your mind. If not, this conference will just be a waste of time."
The First Marshal and Third Marshal exchanged glances with each other. The Song family had people on Planet Haijiao so this old bastard's attitude was exceptionally good today.
"The military promised that they would be able to get a hold of the situation in Planet Haijiao within a week. However, we didn't receive any news of that yet…" The General of the 7th division suddenly said, "With this, how can I not suspect the intentions of the military?"
The Third Marshal replied, "We have already sent the nearest fleet over to Planet Haijiao. However, you all should know that the Hailiyan army attacked them furiously, completely stopping them from reaching Planet Haijiao. This is why we were unable to follow up with our original plan."
"We can't keep getting stopped by Haliya. One week has already passed since they first attacked, and we still don't know anything about the situation on Planet Haijiao. Our soldiers there are currently fighting for their lives, hoping and waiting for us to help them. So, we will like to request for the military to send in more reinforcements to clear the path towards Planet Haijiao," the General of the 4th division said righteously.
Ling Xiao looked at the General of the 4th division. He might have received an order from the Li family to do that. Ling Xiao knew Li Shiyu and Li Yingjie were two of the top three candidates for the succession of the Li family. The Li family, of course, couldn't let these two outstanding successors be killed.
"We have decided to send in a hundred fleets…" The First Marshal informed the generals about the decision of the military.
No general had any qualms about this decision. A hundred fleet was enough to take over a small planet.
At this moment, the General of the 5th division opened his mouth, "If we sent the fleets to Planet Haijiao, they will need at least half a month to reach there. If the Hailiyan army sent people to stop them, they will take even longer. Do you think that our soldiers would be able to withstand the attacks from Hailiya for a month without any reinforcements?"
His words revealed a problem no one wanted to face. They were agitated because none of them were confident that their mecha clans would be able to survive for one month without any reinforcements or supplies. Everyone turned quiet again.
The Third Marshal sighed. He said, " I've received the latest piece of intel from the intelligence bureau just now. We were going to hold the conference soon so I didn't inform you all. Now, you all can take a look at it." The Third Marshal asked his assistant to pass the intel to the generals.
The First Marshal and the Second Marshal's faces turned dark when they heard this. They knew about this piece of intel. The First Marshal couldn't help but look at Ling Xiao. He hoped that Ling Xiao was able to withstand this impact.
All the generals started looking through the information on their communicators. Their expressions turned serious. Ling Xiao was serious too. He didn't show any other expressions. The First Marshal felt consoled. 'My general is a strong-willed person. He will not let his personal affairs affect the big picture.'
The reporters started talking among themselves when they saw this scene. They were guessing what this piece of intel was about.
"Is this reliable?" The General of the 6th division let out a long sigh. He could already feel the bitter taste in his mouth. If this was true, the reinforcements they sent would be useless.
"In order to send this piece of news to us, our spy in the higher ranks of Hailiya lost his life." The Third Marshal seemed to be grieving, proving that the intel was true.
"Hailiya used one week to destroy almost all of our bases, leaving only a few scattered bases still resisting…" The General of the 15th division slammed the table furiously. "This is all because of Hailiya. How can they violate the Human United Agreement and send out imperial operators…"
"I didn't expect them to violate the rules and activate the God-Killers!" The General of the 7th division was furious.
The God-Killers was like the Flying Dragon Special Forces of the Huaxia Federation. All the mecha operators inside were monsters. They were at least an imperial operator. This could explain why the bases of the Federation were destroyed by Haliya within a week.
"The moment our reinforcements reach there, Hailiya might have already claim Planet Haijiao. By then, we will be at a disadvantage. We might be considered invaders and suffer the attacks from the Hailiyan army. The Intergalactic United Nations will also stand on Hailiya's side and condemn us." The Third Marshal voiced out his major concern. This was something that was most likely going to happen too.
The war on Planet Haijiao was a controversial war. The Federation and Hailiya occupied half of the planet each so no one was able to determine who Planet Haijiao belonged to. Thus, the Intergalactic United Nations couldn't interfere with this war. However, once Hailiya stuck their flag on the part of the planet previously ruled by the Federation, the planet would then belong to them. Based on the Human United Agreement, the Federation must admit that Planet Haijiao belonged to Hailiya. The fleets that the Federation sent to reinforce their soldiers would be regarded as invaders. With that, Hailiya had the right to send imperial operators or even god-class operators to attack them.
Imperial operators and god-class operators were forbidden to fight in wars that were controversial. Once a country confirmed that they were being invaded, this rule would not hold.
"Because of this possibility, I don't agree to send the hundred battleships to reinforce Planet Haijiao. The lives of the 280 million soldiers are our responsibility but we are also responsible for the other lives of millions of soldiers on the ships. I can't watch them die like this," the Third Marshal said seriously.
The generals turned silent. They couldn't bear to give up the 280 million soldiers on Planet Haijiao but if what the Third Marshal said was true… they were also unable to bear the lives of 500 million soldiers. The Second Marshal, who always refuted the Third Marshal's decision, didn't have the courage to open his mouth now.
The First Marshal didn't say anything. All the three marshals knew that Ling Xiao's son was on Planet Haijiao. They also knew that the forgettable grandson of the Second Marshal and Qi Yaoyang's youngest son was there too. However, in the face of such a situation, they were unable to sacrifice millions of soldiers to save their family members.
The Third Marshal looked at Qi Yaoyang. He wanted to see what Qi Yaoyang's attitude was. The fact that Qi Yaoyang's youngest son broke ties with his father in order to join Ling Xiao's division was a thorn in his heart. If he didn't have enough strong officers under him, he wouldn��t have let Qi Yaoyang become the General of the 13th division, but no matter what, Qi Yaoyang was his men. He was better than the people under the Second Marshal.
Qi Yaoyang's expression changed a little. However, he still gritted his teeth in the end and didn't reject the Third Marshal's suggestion. The Third Marshal was satisfied with his performance. 'This person knew his position well. He knew what to do and what not to do.'
"I suggest that we give up sending reinforcements and hand this matter over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We will condemn Haliya…" The Third Marshal finally said his suggestion.
Abandoning the 280 million soldiers and then using their sacrifice to gain the moral high ground for the Federation to gain benefits politically. All the generals turned silent again. This seemed like a heartless decision but it was the best decision.
"How can they do this…" The reporters exclaimed.
"Are we going to abandon the 280 million people on Planet Haijiao?"
"If we don't forsake them, what are we going to do? Risk the lives of 500 million more soldiers? The Third Marshal had explained everything. All the big bases on Planet Haijiao had already fallen. Not many people are left alive. After some time, Hailiya will probably announce that they had gained control of planet Haijiao."
"But everything is not confirmed yet. If we abandon them now…" Ladies were more caring than men. They weren't able to forsake lives for the greater good even if those people had no hopes of surviving.
'General Ling Xiao, you won't agree, right?' Wen Qilian clenched her fist. She stared at the calm and stern handsome face. Just like the other ladies, Wen Qilian was unable to accept Third Marshal's suggestion. She couldn't help but place her hopes on Ling Xiao. She hoped that their military idol would hear their cries and speak up for the poor 280 million soldiers on Planet Haijiao.
At this moment, the Third Marshal asked the Second Marshal, "Marshal Song, what do you think?"
The Second Marshal glared at the Third Marshal. He held his hands tightly as he replied, "I agree."
Song Yiqing was just a useless grandson. It was alright for him to die on planet Haijiao. He would gain the reputation of sacrificing for his country and the Song family would benefit from this good name. This honor would help him when he fought for the position of the First Marshal next time. The Second Marshal weighed the options in his heart and decided to give up Song Yiqing.
The Third Marshal looked at the First Marshal. The First Marshal glanced at the Ling Xiao. He said slowly, "This matter…"
Suddenly, Ling Xiao slammed his hands on the table and a deafening sound was heard.
"This suggestion is absurd!" Ling Xiao's anger finally exploded.
Chapter 866: Miracle
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
"Ling Xiao!" The Third Marshal turned stern. He shouted, "Be mindful of your attitude!"
"What attitude do you want? Our soldiers have not given up hope and are fighting hard with the belief that their country will come and save them soon. However, we just sat here on our nice chairs and decided that it is not worth saving them?" Ling Xiao stood up suddenly and shouted angrily, "Marshal Yang, let me ask you, what attitude should I have when I talk to you?"
"Ling Xiao, do you think that I'm willing to abandon the lives of 280 million soldiers?" The Third Marshal slammed his table with his hands and stood up. "I'm the Third Marshal of the Huaxia Federation. I am responsible for not only for the lives of the 280 million soldiers on Planet Haijiao, but I'm also responsible for the lives of everyone in the Federation too."
The atmosphere of the conference turned tense. The viewing reporters couldn't help but hold their breaths.
The Third Marshal took the documents on the table and slammed them down. They landed on the floor with a loud thud. "Hundreds of spies sacrificed their lives in order to get into the intelligence bureau of Hailiya. They gave us the most accurate information they could on Planet Haijiao. They risked their lives to send out these pieces of intel. Why did they do it? They don't want any more soldiers to die needlessly on Planet Haijiao. Are you going to put millions of soldiers in danger just for your selfish desires?"
"My selfish desires? If it is up to my selfish desires, I would rather be fighting in wars instead of sitting in this high position. I'll rather be a passionate soldier with emotions rather than sit here and play with the soldiers' life as though they are chess pieces or just numbers. I'm not willing to be a cold-blooded politician!" Ling Xiao looked at the Third Marshal angrily and refuted, showing no signs of backing out. This was his true thoughts. Even if Ling Lan wasn't on Planet Haijiao, he still would not agree with this suggestion. There was no such thing as giving up in his dictionary.
When he said this, the young and hot-blooded reporters in the conference hall clapped enthusiastically in response to Ling Xiao's speech. If what the Third Marshal said was true, his decision would be saving the lives of millions of soldiers. But, deep down inside their hearts, they still had some hope. They knew that there were still soldiers fighting hard on Planet Haijiao now so they wished that a miracle would occur. If they gave up on the 280 million soldiers before everything was settled, it would be just too cold-blooded.
"Ling Xiao!" The Third Marshal pointed at Ling Xiao angrily. He almost fainted from his anger. Ling Xiao just wanted to save his son but he made it sound so righteous. He pretended to be a good man while picturing them as villains. How despicable of him.
"Marshal Yang, just like what was written on the document, 99% of the bases on Planet Haijiao had fallen. However, there are still 1% of the bases fighting. They are still waiting for reinforcements from the Federation. We mustn't give up on them even if there is only a little hope left. We can't betray those soldiers that are fighting hard for the Federation," Ling Xiao said.
"Ling Xiao, wake up!" The Third Marshal slammed his hands on the table and shouted in anger, "Do you think that those broken bases will be able to resist our Hailiya's attack for at least three months? If Hailiya took over the ownership of Planet Haijiao before our reinforcements arrive, our reinforcements will be regarded as invaders. Hailiya will then have the right to use their ultimate weapons like their god-class operators to literally massacre our reinforcements. You are a god-class operator, so you should know how powerful god-class operators are. Once such people appear on the opposite side of us, all our 100 fleets will be destroyed. Even if we send 50 times more manpower over, they will still be killed like chicken."
"My heart aches for the 280 million soldiers on Planet Haijiao too. However, we can't be emotional now. We need to analyze the situation logically. If we send in reinforcements when we know what the result will be a month later, that is not hot-blooded. That is just plain stupid!" The Third Marshal's expression turned cold as he said, "Ling Xiao, you must learn to get use to your position. You are not longer a mecha operator that fight in these battles. You are a general now. Your decisions will decide the lives of every single soldier in your division. Your decision doesn't just concern only you now, and acting rashly like this won't help with anything."
After he finished speaking, the Third Marshal disregarded Ling Xiao entirely and looked at the First Marshal. As long as the First Marshal accepted his suggestion, Ling Xiao's refusal wouldn't affect anything.
The First Marshal noticed the gaze coming from the Third Marshal but he didn't say anything. Instead, he looked at Ling Xiao. He wanted to hear what Ling Xiao had to say. When the Third Marshal saw him staying silent, he cursed him silently in his head.
The Third Marshal's words dampen the spirit of all the reporters. They were just feeling excited after Ling Xiao's speech but the Third Marshal's reply was like pouring a bucket of iced water over them. Dreams are beautiful but the reality is cruel. There were only a few bases left on Planet Haijiao. Would they really be able to resist against an enemy that had an army that was ten or maybe a hundred times bigger than them? Plus, the bases also wouldn't have any constant supply of resources and weapons. How could they be able to resist attacks for three weeks? Based on their willpower? It seemed unreasonable.
After calming down, they all felt that the Third Marshal was right. His decision was a heartless and cruel one, but they had to be responsible for the lives of the other soldiers too. They couldn't let them die like this.
But… but… but… damn it! They still couldn't accept this! The reporters couldn't help but look at the stern-looking Ling Xiao. Even if the Third Marshal scolded Ling Xiao for being too rash and for him to not have the bearings of a general, they still hoped that General Ling Xiao would be able to persuade the marshals to send reinforcements to Planet Haijiao.
As expected, General Ling Xiao opened his mouth. "Emotional? Analyze the situation logically? Well then, can the Third Marshal analyze these battles for me?" Ling Xiao asked He Xuyang to pass the records he had prepared to the other generals and the three marshals.
"Star calendar year 179, the battle on Planet Aisuo. We had only two bases left on the planet but they still managed to resist for one month before the arrival of our reinforcements."
"Star calendar year 764, the Battle of Yamei. Our army forced themselves to resist against the attack of their opponents who had ten times the numbers than them for three weeks."
"Star calendar year 1016, the Battle of Rimoluo. Our army lasted for two months with only one base left."
"Star calendar year 1597, during the land clearing mission on Planet Haimo, we used one mecha clan to resist against the attack of a few million citizens on Planet Haimo."
As more and more past records of miraculous battles flashed on the screen, everyone saw the common factor between these battles were soldiers who didn't give up and they all managed to wait until reinforcements arrived.
The Third Marshal's face turned dark. Some people hated Ling Xiao for being so insistent. These battles were all unique and had some coincidence. The weapons during that era were not so powerful, so many miracles were created then. However, as technology improved, there were lesser and lesser miracles. No such cases had appeared for the past 1000 years. However, these examples wavered the hearts of those indecisive generals, including the Second Marshal who had decided to give up on his grandson.
"Data is just data. They have no emotions. Hence, there won't be any changes in them. However, our soldiers are not just data. They are humans with feelings. They are soldiers who can create miracles. Since history proved that miracles could be created, why can't we believe that our soldiers can create a miracle too?"
"Marshal Yang, how can you be sure that based on your data, the soldiers on Planet Haijiao are unable to resist for more than three weeks?" Ling Xiao questioned the Third Marshal, "In that case, I'll like to say my judgment on the matter too. I believe that the soldiers on Planet Haijiao will definitely be able to resist until our reinforcements arrive!"
"Ling Xiao, you are being ignorant!" The Third Marshal's face turned red in anger when he heard Ling Xiao's irresponsible speech.
"Ignorant? What a joke! I dare to make this judgment because I never treated the soldiers on Planet Haijiao as just numbers on a piece of paper. They are humans. They have a family too. They have desires to continue living. As long as they never give up, they can create miracles!" Ling Xiao said firmly.
"Miracles are just miracles. Looking back in history, not many people are able to create miracles on the battlefield. I will not risk the lives of millions of soldiers for a slim chance of a miracle!" The Third Marshal sprung up and shouted.
"Marshal Yang, why do you think that we shouldn't bet on it?" Ling Xiao stood up too and question the Third Marshal fiercely. With his status as one of the ten great generals and a god-class operator, Ling Xiao was not afraid of the Third Marshal at all.
None of them was willing to take a step back. The atmosphere of the conference turned tense. Just as Ling Xiao and the Third Marshal were about to kill each other with their gaze, the First Marshal coughed and started clearing up the situation. "We are all worried for our soldiers. No one is right or wrong. Ling Xiao, you are young and hot-tempered. How can you be so disrespectful towards Marshal Yang?" The First Marshal started reprimanding Ling Xiao. Many generals under the First Marshal laughed secretly. Ling Xiao was hot-tempered? This excuse was too insincere. Even some of the generals belonging to the Second Marshal's faction smiled. The Third Marshal's face turned green with anger. This sly old fox was outwardly helping Ling Xiao. Damn it.
"I'm sorry. I was too emotional just now. Please forgive me." Ling Xiao heard this and immediately saluted at the Third Marshal to show his 'respect'.
"Old Yang, Ling Xiao is still young so he acts rashly sometimes. Old people like us should forgive him and not be at the same level as him." The First Marshal spoke to the Third Marshal again. On the surface, he seemed to be reprimanding Ling Xiao for being insensible. However, he was hinting that the Third Marshal was not lenient enough and didn't have the bearing of a marshal. The Third Marshal's face turned hideous when he heard this.
Since Ling Xiao had already apologized, the Third Marshal had to reply to him. He said with frustration, "It's fine. He is making those mistakes because he is too concerned. Why would I be angry at him for that?"
The unhappy Third Marshal took this opportunity to blemish Ling Xiao's reputation again. He wanted everyone to know that he was just concerned about his son and not the other soldiers like what he had mentioned.
"I'm sure everyone has heard what Marshal Yang and Ling Xiao said. What is everyone's opinion on the matter?" The First Marshal scanned the generals on the screen and asked indifferently.
The Third Marshal looked at one of the generals in his faction. The general said, "What General Ling Xiao said is just a beautiful dream. However, reality is not a dream. To prevent more sacrifices, I agree with what Marshal Yang has said."
The other generals from the Third Marshal's faction agreed with this general. The Second Marshal closed his eyes and kept silent, so the other generals in his faction kept silent too.
The general of the 7th division looked at the other generals who didn't want to make a decision. He got furious. He said, "I admit that what Marshal Yang said is the most likely outcome. However, what General Ling Xiao said makes sense too. The most likely outcome is not 100% certain. As a general, I can't give up on my soldiers. I agree with sending reinforcements."
It was obvious that the General of the 7th division was supporting Ling Xiao. A few generals from the First Marshal's faction who had a good relationship with Ling Xiao supported Ling Xiao too. However, since the First Marshal didn't say anything yet, those generals that didn't have much interaction with Ling Xiao remained quiet. This caused the number of people who supported Ling Xiao to be lower than the number of people who supported the Third Marshal.
Qi Yaoyang wanted to say something in support of Ling Xiao but he saw Ling Xiao signalling him to remain silent, so he had no choice but to control himself.
The Second Marshal moved his finger and one of the generals under him finally opened his mouth, "I would like to ask General Ling Xiao a question."
Ling Xiao raised his eyebrows slightly. He nodded and said, "General Lu, please continue." He wondered what the Second Marshal's faction was trying to do. Ling Xiao was not so naive as to believe that the Second Marshal would side with him.
"You mentioned that you believe our soldiers can resist for more than three weeks until the arrival of our reinforcements. Can you provide any evidence to prove this point? A miracle… is not enough to make us believe in you." The general of the 8th division, General Lu, suddenly said.
The Third Marshal's eyes lit up. He was afraid that the Second Marshal would stand on Ling Xiao's side because of his grandson. But from the looks of it, that might not be the case.
Chapter 867: Surpassed!
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
This question instantly caught everyone's attention, including the First Marshal. He also wanted to know whether Ling Xiao actually had a reason to insist on sending reinforcements or perhaps he was just doing all this to save his own son. If that was the case, for the countless soldiers, he couldn't support Ling Xiao.
Ling Xiao looked at General Lu with a half-smile. How could he not know that the Second Marshal was planning on letting him take on the responsibility of sending the reinforcements? Although the Second Marshal wanted to save his grandson, he still didn't want to take on the reputation of being selfish and not caring about the lives of his soldiers…
However, Ling Xiao didn't think that it was wrong for him to think about saving Ling Lan. If he was going to heartlessly abandon his own flesh and blood, he would be considered a terrible father! He would be worse than a beast if that was the case.
Ling Xiao nodded at He Xuyang.Then, He Xuyang immediately sent the list of names of 250 Ace Mecha Clan to all of the communicator of each general and the hard drive of the mainframe.
Soon, the large screen in front of them showed all the names of the mecha operators in 250 Ace Mecha Clan, along with their mecha operating level, military rank, position, merits…
The reporters began to gasp in surprise as they continued looking through the list of mecha operator names on the large screen. They noticed that there were many well-known veteran mecha operators in the clan. Some older reporters had even once had the chance to interview some of them who had made massive contributions in previous wars. However after a few years of their rise to fame, these mecha operators who made countless contributions to the Federation for some reason had disappeared from the public eye, never to be seen or heard for the past few years. These reporters weren't aware that they had all gathered in General Ling Xiao's 23rd Division.
It was probably because of General Ling Xiao's position in the hearts of many. After establishing the 23rd Division, his public image was boosted significantly, causing all kinds of strong mecha operators to actively join in… These ace operators probably didn't even care that they would just enter a standard ace mecha clan, and with all that, they still wanted to follow in General Ling Xiao's footsteps.
All of the reporters looked towards Ling Xiao with passionate gazes. His expression became even more heated and honest as he continued to argue back. Back then, the Third Marshal had purposely put Ling Xiao up as an idol in front of the public and soldiers to anger the people of the Federation for his loss. After 20 years of building this idol figure, they had some lost control over him…
Ling Xiao's cold voice rang once again, "For this mission, my 23rd Division sent 250 Ace Mecha Clan to Planet Haijiao to be stationed at Base 013. The background of the members of 250 Ace Mecha Clan has already been shown on the big screen… These mecha operators are all outstanding and top-level individuals from all division. Many of them are even mecha operators who have already reached the halfway point of entering the imperial level. They have also acquired military merits and gained achievements for the Federation in the past. In the countless battles they had participated in, they never lost once. In terms of merits, we can clearly see that it is not the first time that they are fighting a battle with less military strength!"
After Ling Xiao said all this, he looked at all the other generals with a half-smile. "Generals, you're all probably very familiar with the top performers who had worked under you for all these years without losing a single battle, right? I, Ling Xiao, am very grateful that each general has helped me greatly by sending such outstanding and excellent ace mecha operators to my aid."
Ling Xiao said those words laced deep with sarcasm which made all the general break out in cold sweat. Back then, they had indeed used the name of helping 23rd Division to send those useless mecha operators to Ling Xiao, who had no clue of the truth of the condition those mecha operators. This series of dumping their burdens onto Ling Xiao forced him to create 250 Ace Mecha Clan which wasted the already limited resources they had to support those useless mecha operators.
Now, those useless mecha operators were once again brought out into the light by Ling Xiao in this setting. This made the generals feel like they were stepping on their own foot. After all, on paper, those mecha operators were indeed the best of the best ace mecha operators in the Federation. If they didn't send reinforcements, the billions of citizens of the Federation would definitely be angry at their ruthless decision. The soldiers in the military currently might also lose their morale to improve themselves if they see their own superiors abandoning soldiers who had more merits than them. What did they get in return for fighting to protect the safety of their country with their lives? As soon as something unfavorable happens, the soldiers on the front-lines would be heartlessly abandoned by the military…
Ling Xiao's move was without a doubt a disgusting move. Those mecha operators were clearly useless individuals with not much military strength. Thus, they shouldn't have the capabilities to hold on for three more weeks. However at that moment, they couldn't tell that truth to the public… The Third Marshal was regretting it somewhat. 'Why did I agree to have reporters join the conference? Now, I have no way of rebutting Ling Xiao's lie. Even if I was to speak the truth about those mecha operators, the reporters outside will definitely not believe me. They would only think that the military is refusing the rescue and is deliberately trying to make Ling Xiao look bad.'
Compared to the Third Marshal's worked up frustration, the Second Marshal, although knowing that Ling Xiao was lying, wasn't fixated on that. Instead, the Second Marshal wanted to know who could take the blame if things were to go wrong. As for the First Marshal, he instantly frowned when Ling Xiao used the members of 250 Ace Mecha Clan as his reasons. He could understand that Ling Xiao wanted to save his own son, but did not like the fact that Ling Xiao would lie and hide the truth for his own selfish gains. He believed that Ling Xiao wasn't the kind of person who wouldn't care about the lives of millions of members in the reinforcement group…
"Ling Xiao, although the mecha operators from 250 Ace Mecha Clan are quite strong, their numbers still just amount to a number for a large battalion. Thus, they don't have the strength to endure constant attacks from both the enemy and the God-Killers for more than three weeks." The First Marshal said calmly. "Do you have any other reasons to back up your suggestion?"
If Ling Xiao didn't have enough reasons to persuade him, he would not agree to send reinforcements even if he was to hurt Ling Xiao's feelings.
Hearing this, the Third Marshal smirked. He was willing to agree with the First Marshal because the First Marshal usually stood on the side of justice. He would definitely not blindly agree to someone even if they were of his own faction. Of course, this way of doing things was also the reason why the First Marshal could sit on the throne for all this time. He placated both the Third and Second Marshal at the same time.
The First Marshal's unexpected words stunned all the reporters. 'Does this mean that even the First Marshal doesn't support the idea of sending reinforcements?' The reporters all knew that General Ling Xiao was in the First Marshal's faction…
"Must all 280 million citizens from Planet Haijiao be abandoned? General Ling Xiao, you must persuade the First Marshal!" All of the reporters clenched their fists because of the anxiousness. They placed all of their hopes on Ling Xiao. These reporters knew very well that the only general that actually supported the idea of sending reinforcements was Ling Xiao and no one else.
The First Marshal's words made Ling Xiao's eyes flicker. He slowly stood up and put his hands on the table. He leaned forward with his eyes gleaming with concentration.
"Do I have any other reasons?" Ling Xiao smiled proudly, "Of course, I do. My main reason for sending reinforcements is because the regiment commander who is leading them, Ling Lan, is an imperial operator! He was just 21 years old when he entered the imperial level and he is also an imperial operator who surpassed my existence.
Chapter 868: Ling Xiao's Son!
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
"That is not possible!" exclaimed the Third Marshal.
The First Marshal and Second Marshal both had huge changes on their facial expressions. Ling Xiao giving them such news had stunned them greatly. Privately, in the Flying Dragon Special Forces, there were also 21-year-old operators who had entered imperial level. However, this result was gained through combining all the resources of the Federation and using a lot of secret techniques to nurture these people. However, doing this would leave them with a lot of post traumatic stress and would also deplete their potential as mecha operators at an early age, with no possibility of reaching any higher levels.
However, Ling Xiao was clearly not talking about those types of individuals. Someone who had surpassed his existence meant that Ling Xiao believed his son had a high chance of becoming a god-class operator. If that was the case, no matter how many people the Federation's military was to sacrifice, they still have to pay the price to save this future god-class operator. After all, the three marshals knew what an additional god-class operator meant for the Federation.
"Wait, I remember the research department had come up with a theory. They said that the son of a god-class operator could never advance to the imperial level…" The Third Marshal finally spoke out what he was thinking about.
At that moment, the reporters watching in the conference room were still surprised by Ling Xiao's public announcement that there was a 21 year-old imperial operator on Planet Haijiao. Now, they were all dumbfounded by the Third Marshal's new statement.
"Did the Third Marshal just say the son of a god-class operator?" Wen Qilian grabbed a reporter she didn't know and shouted excitedly.
"Yeah…" That reporter also excitedly nodded as his body began to tremble uncontrollably.
"Ling Xiao's son!" Every reporter had an answer in their minds. This was news that was enough to shake the entire Federation. If Ling Lan was to actually advance into god-level, then they would create a new record for the human race for being the first father and son god-class operators…
On the large screen, faced with the Third Marshal's questioning, Ling Xiao said proudly, "It wasn't possible in the past doesn't mean it's not possible now, and it also doesn't mean that it will not be possible in the future!"
"My son Ling Lan could advance to imperial operator proves that the supposed research results are false. Then, how could we confirm that the results of Planet Haijiao's battle and future prospects are true?! Using only one piece of intel to determine the lives of 280 million soldiers. I, Ling Xiao, do not agree!" Faced with the Third Marshal's pressing questions, Ling Xiao actively counterattacked him instead.
Ling Xiao's words had proved Ling Lan's identity. He was surprisingly Ling Xiao's son! All the female reporters excitedly covered their mouths and giggled uncontrollably. 'It turns out the son of the handsome man is also a handsome man!' Ling Xiao's statement of disagreement also ignited the hearts of the male reporters, so the entire conference room instantly erupted with noise everywhere.
Ling Xiao's provocation made the Third Marshal's face turned pale. A general in his faction quickly tried to chime into the conversation. "Even if Ling Lan is an imperial operator, how could one imperial operator and a few hundred top-level operators hold on for more than three weeks?"
After those words were spoken, all of the reporters in the conference room became livid. It was just as General Ling Xiao had said. They also couldn't prove that Ling Lan's group couldn't do it. What would happen if a miracle actually did happen and they actually held on for more than three weeks?
Hearing this, Ling Xiao instantly straighten his posture with confident expression on his face. He said without hesitation, "Just from the fact that he is my son. He can definitely perform a miracle."
"Haha, Ling Xiao, you're too naive. You're going to take the risk of sacrificing the lives of millions of soldiers just on the grounds of him being your son? How are you going to take responsibility if your son can't hold on for more than three weeks and in turn making us sacrifice millions of soldiers on Planet Haijiao for no reason?" Asked a general under the same faction as the Third Marshal who was of the same rank with Ling Xiao. Using the fact that he was an old fart to mock Ling Xiao needlessly.
"If I dared to say it, then I will also take full responsibility. If my son, Ling Lan, cannot hold on for more than three weeks. Then I, Ling Xiao, will automatically resign from my position as general!" Ling Xiao angrily said as he smashed his hand on the table.
"Ling Xiao!" The First Marshal shouted, "Don't be impulsive!"
"Marshal! When you appointed me as the General of the 23rd Division, I was anxious and asked you the question on how to be a qualified general. Back then, you only said one sentence, and that was to care for soldiers as if they were my own flesh and blood," Ling Xiao said with reddened eyes. "I have always done everything in that philosophy. Ling Lan is my son and at the same time, also my subordinate. If I abandoned my own son, then the idea of caring for the soldiers as if they were my own flesh and blood would be considered a joke, wouldn't it…"
"Thus, as long as there is a sliver of hope, I, Ling Xiao, will not give up on any soldier in our military. For that, even if I have to risk everything, I will not regret it!"
"General Ling Xiao really is a warm-hearted person. He doesn't hide his emotional side. I believe that he can definitely love his soldiers like he would his own flesh and blood." Wen Qilian, who was usually strong-willed, had tears dripping down her eyes uncontrollably. After seeing the generals heartlessly sacrifice a portion of their soldiers for a so-called victory, Ling Xiao's words had warmed the hearts of all the reporters. Ling Xiao wasn't logical, calm and wasn't like most generals that they knew, but they felt that it was a great thing that Ling Xiao had become a general.
Ling Xiao's words made the other generals go silent. Back then, when they became generals, they had also said the same statement. However, when did they forget it? Or perhaps they had never taken it into their hearts in the first place?
At that moment, Qi Yaoyang, who was silent, coughed loudly. He first looked at the Third Marshal with an apologetic expression and then said, "Just now I kept telling myself to look at the whole picture and not put my own feelings into it. However, General Ling Xiao's words have moved me. My unfilial son would rather fight with me and follow the leader he followed from his childhood to the 23rd Division. Although this made me very angry, no matter how unfilial he was, he is still my son. This time, he and his leader, Ling Lan, are both stuck on Planet Haijiao… As his father, I can't abandon him. I also want to be a general who loves his soldiers like his own flesh and blood."
Hearing this, Ling Xiao snorted coldly, "Lieutenant General Qi, what's wrong with him joining my 23rd Division?"
Qi Yaoyang also snorted coldly with a look of disdain on his face, "Then, why don't you let your son join my 13th Division?" Ling Xiao took his son and still had something to say about it?
The two of them stared at each other, and a slight killing intent was sensed in the air. In the end, they both snorted coldly and stopped their quarrel. After all, at that moment, they were on the same team. They must set aside their differences and cooperate with each other for once.
Ling Xiao's words made the First Marshal have a change of heart. He turned around and looked towards the Second Marshal and asked, "Brother Song, what do you think?"
Chapter 869: Flying Dragon Special Forces Move Out!
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
"The situation on Planet Haijiao is just as Brother Yang has said if we continue to be passive like this our defeat is inevitable. However, what Ling Xiao has said isn't completely wrong. We shouldn't say that Planet Haijiao is done for, just because logic says it isn't possible," the Second Marshal said slowly. Since Ling Xiao was willing to take on the responsibility of sending reinforcements, then he could just go with the flow.
The Second Marshal sudden change of heart made the Third Marshal livid on the inside. In the end, it was still because of selfishness. He knew that if a situation concerned their family members, these people would take this risk and put everyone else's lives on the line just for their selfishness.
Ling Xiao seemed to have been waiting for those words and replied immediately, "I've thought about the main crux of the problem. Marshals are just worried that if by any chance the remaining bases will lose on Planet Haijiao before reinforcements were to get there, turning Planet Haijiao into Hailiya's territory, changing the identity of the reinforcements into invaders, and would then face the assault of Hailiya's full military force, especially since it would give Hailiya a reason to have their god-class operator move out. If that's the case, I'm willing to take on the commander role in this rescue mission to ensure the safety of the reinforcements," Ling Xiao requested automatically.
"No way!" The First and Second Marshal almost simultaneously shouted.
The two marshal looked at each other. The Second Marshal made a sign to the First Marshal for him to explain first since Ling Xiao was his subordinate. Seeing the sign, the First Marshal promptly explained, "Ling Xiao, don't be impulsive. Going to Hailiya would require entering public sectors, and god-class operators are not allowed to leave the sectors of their own country. If you were to be discovered, we would be definitely be pressured by the Intergalactic United Nations. It might even cause a chain reaction in the neighbouring countries…" If god-class operators were so easy to deploy, would they still worry about the safety of their reinforcements?
"If god-class operators cannot be deployed, it doesn't mean that imperial operators cannot be deployed, especially since Hailiya was the first to deploy them." Ling Xiao already knew that his proposal would not be accepted. Every god-class operator from each country was under the watchful eyes of the secret service of each country. They couldn't just switch out and have someone pretending to be them, unless they leave behind their mechas and put on a disguise, similar to the latest land clearing mission… However, a land clearing mission was only a land clearing mission so it didn't concern the other countries. Thus, the secret services were relaxed which allowed him to find a time window to get out. However, now was not the same as back then. Not only was Hailiya putting tabs on god-class operators, other enemy nations were also doing the same.
The reason he brought up this proposal was to remind the three marshals and the generals that the issue they were worried about actually had a way to be resolved.
"You're saying the God-Killers?" The First Marshal's gaze instantly sharpened.
"That's right. Since we have proof that Hailiya sent out God-Killers, then if we send out the Flying Dragon Special Forces, it would only be appropriate. It would also conform to the promise that us humans had made in the very beginning." Ling Xiao's voice completely calm.
The promise was after one side invaded, the other side would be allowed to send out similar level operators. For example, if god-class operators were sent out, the opponent would also be able to send out god-class operators. This was why Ling Xiao couldn't move out. Once Ling Xiao was deployed, Hailiya would move and send out their god-class operators. This would turn this small war into a large scale war where it would only end when either side gets destroyed.
Ling Xiao's words made the three marshals think deeply for a moment. Giving up the 280 million citizens and soldiers on Planet Haijiao was not something they wanted. It was just that in such a volatile situation, they couldn't help but really consider that… However, if there was actually a way to get around it, they, of course, was not going to give up those people.
"I agree to send out the Flying Dragon Special Forces. It doesn't matter if they can't hold on until reinforcements arrive. We cannot just let the God-Killers do as they please." Other general agreed to deploy the Flying Dragon Special Forces to fight Hailiya.
The First Marshal thought for a moment and asked, "Does everyone still remember the first oath we made when we became a soldier of the Federation?"
Everyone's expression instantly became serious and they all stood up simultaneously. They placed their fists onto their chest and shouted uniformly, "Those who defy our country must be punished no matter where they are!"
"I still remember the oath from back then like it was yesterday. Hailiya's actions has clearly defied our country so they must be punished no matter where they are!" The First Marshal said without hesitation, "I agree to deploying the Flying Dragon Special Forces!"
"I agree!" The Second Marshal said.
"I agree!" The Third Marshal was also angry about the issue with the God-Killers.
"I agree!" All of the generals all agreed with this decision.
"That's amazing!" The reporters saw this scene and all clapped their hands. 'Those who defy our country must be punished no matter where they are.' was a statement that had already seeped into the bones of all the citizens of the Federation since the creation of it. Hailiya's actions had already angered all of the citizens and soldiers of the Federation. They were definitely not going to let Hailiya get away with it.
"As for sending reinforcements…" When the First Marshal spoke, all of the generals sat upright. As for the reporters in the conference room, they all had their hearts hanging high up in the air, as what the First Marshal was going to say next was the most important issue of this meeting.
"Agree, agree…" Many reporters shouted softly, hoping that the First Marshal would support General Ling Xiao.
The First Marshal's gaze suddenly turned to Qi Yaoyang, "I suggest that we use the 13th Division as the main force for the reinforcement. Other divisions should send starship teams and ace operators to fill in and let Lieutenant General Qi Yaoyang take command." Qi Yaoyang, who was halfway towards god-class, was the strongest mecha operator after the Federation's god-class operators. He had always been considered the 14th god-class operator of the Federation by enemy nations. With him in command, even if the situation was dire, he would still be able to protect most of the reinforcements and safely retreat.
"I agree!" The Second Marshal decisively raised his hand, as Qi Yaoyang was perfect choice to be the commander. As expected, the older one was, the wiser one gets. Everything that the First Marshal decided was definitely foolproof.
Everyone looked towards the Third Marshal. Seeing this, the Third Marshal couldn't help but also raise his hand and agree. His worries and concerns seemed to be not so important anymore after Qi Yaoyang was chosen to be the commander of the reinforcements. Although Hailiya was careful enough to not cause the Federation's god-class operators to move out, they still managed to accidentally let the god-like Qi Yaoyang off his leash.
Finally, the rescue of Planet Haijiao was approved. Included in the reinforcements was the commander, Qi Yaoyang, who was the strongest imperial level individual. After recording all of the news, the reporters finally satisfyingly returned to their news stations. Right as they were thinking about letting citizens know about these news, they received an order from the military. They were told to lock-down all information regarding Ling Xiao's son, Ling Lan.
When they received this order, the reporters could only regret that they couldn't share such inspiring information with the citizens of the Federation, but they knew that keeping it a secret was best for Ling Lan's safety. When General Ling Xiao became a god-class operator, he still couldn't escape from the plots of the enemy nations. If enemy nations were to know that there was a second generation 'Ling Xiao' in the Federation, they would definitely plan assassinations. Thus, this lock-down order should definitely be follow through. In reality, the reporters who participated in the conference all understood this. From when they heard this information, they knew that they would have to take it with them to their graves.
Chapter 870: Going Home Together!
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Inside the secret base of the Flying Dragon Special Forces, those with the qualifications to watch the live broadcast of the conference meeting were able to know first hand of the decision that the Flying Dragon Special Forces will move out to Planet Haijiao.
"Any thoughts?" The commander of the Flying Dragon Special Forces asked the 10 team leaders in the meeting room.
Brain One smiled, "I was just getting bored and restless. Going to Planet Haijiao to stretch doesn't seem too bad." The other team leaders all agreed with that statement. Truth be told, they did not agree with giving up on rescue in the beginning but luckily, General Ling Xiao knew the hearts of the people and spoke out the words in their hearts.
The commanding officer turned around and looked towards a corner. In the group of people over at the corner, two of the youngest members of the Flying Dragon Special Forces were sitting there, "What about you guys?"
Tang Ningyu thought for a moment and said, "I want to go see this Ling Lan." He wanted to see just how impressive this person was. General Ling Xiao had said that his son was an existence that surpassed him. However, him saying that was not enough to convince Tang Ningyu.
Mu Chaoran on the other hand just stretched and yawned with a sly look on his face as he smirked, "Ling Xiao's son. A real divine child. I think he is definitely interesting."
"If that's the case, then you two should follow everyone to Planet Haijiao," said the commanding officer decisively.
Not long after, all the leaders left to go pick their team members. Although Flying Dragon Special Forces was allowed to move out, they still wouldn't take everyone with them. They still had to leave enough people to handle emergency situations.
Brain One was the only leader who stayed behind in the meeting room, but no one asked him any questions, as everyone was already used to his behavior. Normally, Brain One would be the one to plan the plan of attack with the commanding officer. This time, he ,of course, would do the same thing.
After everyone had left, Brain One asked his commanding officer in a confused tone, "Chief, didn't you always protect Little Tang and Little Mu? Why are you sending them both out this time?"
The commanding officer said in dismay, "Look at how Ling Xiao treats his own son… If I keep protecting them, then they may be overtaken by Ling Xiao's son, leaving me no chance to ever pass Ling Xiao in this lifetime."
"Haven't you been left in the dust by Ling Xiao already…?" Brain One thought to himself.
"Ling Xiao only has one son, and yet he isn't afraid of sending his son to somewhere as dangerous as Planet Haijiao, so how could I lose to him?" The commanding officer was born in the same generation as Ling Xiao, and thus his limelight was overshadowed by Ling Xiao's shadow. So of course, he didn't want to lose to Ling Xiao in terms of a successor too. "Plus, Ling Xiao's son made those breakthroughs when he was in predicaments. It seems that difficult situations indeed could let someone break through their shell. I was too careful in the past."
He was somewhat weak in terms of heart. This was because he was depressed after a classmate of his died during a mission on Planet Azure. Compared to the Ling Xiao, he couldn't help but hate himself for not pushing to rescue his friend.
"All in all, I'm putting their safety in your hands…" Although the commanding officer made the difficult decision, he still asked Brain One to protect the leaders of the younger generation.
"Understood, chief." Brain One accepted the order given to him, and then he began to discuss the plans of the rescue on Planet Haijiao with the commanding officer.
Planet Haijiao had already lost communication with the Federation for more than three weeks.
In a dense jungle, a team of broken down miniature sized mechas were carefully moving through it.
"Regiment commander, is there really still a base on the east side?" They were a mecha clan from the middle sector who managed to get out with their lives. Now, there were less than 10% of their forces remaining with just a few dozen getting away with their lives.
"I heard the broadcast. It should right." The regiment commander still remembered that when he entered the east sector, the short radio wave channel suddenly started making some sounds, and after fidgeting it for a few minutes, he could clearly hear the broadcast about a base still holding strong on the east side.
"I'm just worried. What if it's Hailiya's plan to bait us into getting caught?" One mecha operator, who was following the regiment commander closely, became more suspicious as they got closer to Base 013. They were like birds frightened by the sounds of anything on their entire way to this location.
"It's possible, but do we have any other choice?" The regiment commander looked towards the staff officer who was kept alive by medicinal agents. In their mechas, there were also two heavily injured comrades. If they wanted to save their lives, they must go to the base for them to get surgery, so even if it was bait, they still had to go.
"The broadcast has been telling that they are fighting with Hailiya's forces using guerrilla warfare. As long as we endure for one more week, the Federation's reinforcements should be able to arrive… If you think about it, if it was Hailiya's trap, they wouldn't say something like this. However, it doesn't rule out the possibility that this is all a massive trap," said the regiment commander bitterly. "Now, we can only risk it all and try."
The mecha operators saw the location of Base 013 on their maps and were all in agony. Currently, not only did they lack medicinal agents, weapons and supplies, even their food was just raw vegetation and bugs. They had already reached the point of no return, so even if it was Hailiya's trap, they could only try their luck.
Similarly, on a narrow barren path, a Federation soldier with a tattered uniform was carrying a severely injured soldier on his back as he walked straight ahead.
"Brother Yu, I think I can see our regiment commander coming to welcome us," the severely injured soldier hung on his companion's shoulder and said softly.
"Nonsense. You're just tired, just close your eyes and rest, and as soon as you wake up we will be at Base 013." Although he was tired, he still didn't think about abandoning his comrades. When he heard his comrade talk about nonsense such as seeing their dead regiment commander, he immediately told him to stop.
"Brother Yu, you've already carried me while walking for three straight days with no rest. Thank you for being me, but… I can't keep dragging you down with me." Taking him like this would kill his only friend left in this world, as only the two of them had managed to stay alive from their mecha clan. If it was possible, he wanted to stand alongside with Brother Yu again, but he really couldn't hold on any longer.
"Our regiment commander has said before that there are no cowards who gives up in our Ten Commandments Mecha Clan. You can't let him down. Now, don't say anything else. You should be resting." Brother Yu was trying his best to give his comrade the strength to continue living while holding the tears in his eyes.
"Thank you, Brother Yu. I'm very happy that I could become a member of the Ten Commandments. I'm happy that I had met you. Now, please take us with you and return the Federation. Let's all go home together…" The voice of the soldier, who leaned on Brother Yu's body, became softer and softer. There was already a short dagger in his left abdomen. He smirked slightly, seemingly with no regrets… In order to give his comrade a larger chance to survive, he made the decision to no longer drag him down.
Seeing this, Brother Yu's dry eyes became red instantly. Within these past three weeks, he had mourned for one comrade after another. In the end, he still couldn't protect his last comrade. He was now the only one left from the Ten Commandments Mecha Clan… He lifted his trembling hand as he ripped off the serial number tag from the severely injured soldier's uniform. He opened the bag on his belt and a bunch of tags were inside it. It was a thick pile. There wasn't a thousand, but definitely had a few hundred… Brother Yu carefully placed the new tag with the other ones and put it back into the bag on his belt.
He was going to take his comrades with him to Base 013. They will wait for reinforcements together. Return to the Federation together. Return to the home that had given them birth and nurtured them!
There were similar scenes happening around Base 013. The soldiers who continued to live brought the hopes of their dying comrades. They continued to move towards the hope in their hearts…