Mountain Hopping

Novoros Central Operations Building

Dimitri was looking at the new building, a joint effort of the Novoros military and the Empire. Entering the building, guarded by soldiers and armed to the last cartridge, Dimitri made his way to the operations room. Magic monitors displayed different fronts in Tyrell, with the northern line currently executing feint offensives to keep the enemy at bay. Half of the dwarven relief army had already departed back to their kingdom, but the air force did not allow them to leave unscathed. Out of the 40,000 soldiers that were heading back, only 25,000 survived and successfully crossed the border.

During their retreat, the air force initiated a bombing campaign targeting their roads and supply lines. However, their capital, hidden within a mountain, proved a greater challenge. In response, the air force introduced a new weapon called the "Bunker Invader Bomb." This bomb was designed to penetrate deep into the mountain before detonating, causing a small earthquake. Over 100,000 units of this bomb were produced, with half used within the first week. Back in the Draconian mainland, designated factories operated 24/7, with workers taking 12-hour shifts for triple pay. After a week, another 200,000 bombs arrived in quick succession, allowing the air force to continue its relentless bombing campaign. Garbaros cities near the frontlines suffered the most, with the enemy air force unable to counter the bombers flying at high altitudes.

"Sir!" The man inside the operations room saluted Dimitri, who returned the gesture.

"What's the status?" Dimitri asked.

"Currently, we are maintaining the lines in the northern and western fronts while the eastern lines are reinforcing their defenses. They are preparing a new offensive in a month called 'Operation Mountain Hopping,'" the intel officer stated, using a long stick to point at the borders.

"Our air force has been exceptional, providing close air support to our troops and executing strategic bombings," he continued, indicating recently bombed cities.

"And how about Operation Crusader's progress?" Dimitri inquired, referencing the large-scale counteroffensive prepared by the Novoros and Draconian forces.

"At 90%, sir. Most of the required supplies are nearly complete, and the winter clothing for the soldiers is almost ready. However, the troops are questioning the necessity of such clothing," the officer reported.

Dimitri turned to one of the officers. "When is winter expected?"

"In three weeks, according to the weather forecasting stations. It's predicted to be the strongest of the year," the officer replied.

"Good. Let it build for a few days. Then we will strike, taking advantage of the enemy's diminished supplies. While their magic may mitigate the effects of low crop yields, cutting off their logistical lines will still be devastating," Dimitri said.

A Novoros general added, "We've prepared for this moment. Before the first-year celebration begins, we shall launch our crusade. The Emperor has promised to send the 1st Legion to train our recruits."

The 1st Legion, along with a battalion of Imperial Guards from the 'Sword of the Emperor' unit, would be deployed. This elite unit, consisting of over a legion's worth of soldiers, was capable of combating high to middle-tier gods. Ten of them could eliminate hundreds of saint-level enemies. Besides combat, they also maintained order in territories when local forces struggled.

"Announcing this information to the troops will boost morale," one Novoros officer suggested.

"No," a Novoros general interjected, "Releasing deployment information too early will alert the enemy. They will fortify their defenses."

"Agreed," Dimitri commended the general. "Now, let's review the plans one last time to ensure everyone is up to speed."

For the next four hours, they discussed strategies, including the possibility of paratrooper operations. While some argued the risk, most agreed that the potential rewards justified the cost. The focus remained on the destruction of the High Kingdom of Kemrad and the Garbaros Empire. Other human nations assisting the alliance would be given a simple choice: submit to the Empire's banner or face invasion.

Alex's POV

Fort Bartholin, Imperial Heartlands

The 1st Legion engaged in high-intensity exercises, with new recruits and veterans clad in combat uniforms. Joining the Emperor's personal army was the highest honor, with rigorous training akin to that of special forces.

"General Alexander Marshal," Alex addressed, observing the exercises. The general, a low-tier god, hailed from a family renowned for producing exceptional military leaders.

"In a few months, Your Majesty, they will be combat-ready by regular legion standards," Alexander replied, pointing to tanks firing at distant targets. The tanks had been upgraded with auto-loaders and engines compatible with mana crystals for emergency fuel. Each tank also contained dimensional storage for extra ammunition, spare parts, camping gear, and rations.

"Good. Get them ready before the anniversary. This legion will deploy to the Novoros front. Do not disappoint me," Alex said with a smirk.

"Legion, stand at attention!" Alexander's booming voice commanded, and all soldiers instantly complied.

"Don't worry, Your Majesty. Your army will charge to death if necessary," Alexander vowed, saluting Alex, who nodded and left.

"Back to training! We have a battlefield to conquer!" Alexander roared, intensifying the training further.

Unknown Laboratory - A Few Hours Ago

"Sir, we're ready," a scientist announced. Michael, studying equations on the chalkboard, nodded.

"Attempt 501, Atomic Project," he dictated into a tape recorder. The reactor, similar to a nuclear reactor but equipped with antimatter structures, powered up. Scientists monitored the energy output as it surpassed the levels of mana crystals.

"Stop it there," Michael ordered, noticing the material vibrations.

"We've achieved a stable output," Michael said. "This miniature reactor can power an entire city for 20 years. It may even resolve the mana crystal shortage."

Present Time - Emperor's Office

"So Michael completed the Atomic Project?" Alex raised an eyebrow. He understood the gravity of this breakthrough. Historically, attempts to fuse nuclear power with mana crystals had resulted in catastrophic failures. Only the Archivists, enigmatic keepers of ancient knowledge, knew the full extent of the consequences.

"Yes, Your Majesty. Sir Michael is running final diagnostics. The output is at 1.5 gigawatts," the scientist reported, handing Alex a detailed document.

"Is it safe?" Alex questioned.

"Absolutely. Antimatter structures prevent mana interference," the scientist confirmed.

Alex reviewed the budget, acknowledging the cost—equivalent to an entire kingdom's treasury. However, the potential benefits were undeniable. By installing these reactors in Novoros, they could reduce coal consumption and establish a reliable energy source.

"Continue the research and proceed with temporary installations," Alex commanded.

As the scientist left, Alex slumped into his chair, eyeing the remaining paperwork. No rest awaited a ruler who truly worked for his people.

To be continued...