Clearing Operation Part 6

Meanwhile, Alpha 3 and 4 were doing just fine clearing out the monsters at the strip mine. The kobolds there weren't much of a threat as they were only wielding bows, axes, spears, and swords, all of which were in crude condition. The kobolds didn't even have organizational cohesion, attacking in disorganized waves.

The soldiers moved efficiently, using their superior firepower and tactics to cut through the kobolds. The Challenger Tank led the charge, its main gun blasting apart groups of kobolds, while the M2 Bradley's autocannon provided covering fire.

As the soldiers advanced, they found several makeshift camps and weapon caches. It was clear that the kobolds had been using the strip mine as a base of operations. The soldiers methodically cleared each camp, ensuring no threats were left behind.

"Alpha 3, we're almost at the main entrance to the mine," reported Alpha 4. "There's the road that leads to it. Should we tell Alpha 1 and 2 to push forward so that we can meet at the entrance of the mine?" 

"That would be difficult as they encountered poisonous monsters," Alpha 3 responded tensely. "We are going to await instructions from Actual." 

Alpha 3 switched the frequency of his radio and contacted Vincent.

"Actual this is Alpha 3. We are almost at the road leading to the mine. Requesting guidance over."

"This is Actual, received. You are to maintain your position over there and wait for Platoon 1 and 2 to regain control over the main road." 

Alpha 3 acknowledged the order and relayed it to his men. "Hold the position and secure the area. We wait for Alpha 1 and 2 to clear the main road."

Back at the campsite, Alpha 1 and 2 were regrouping. The wounded soldiers who had inhaled the poisonous mist were being treated, and the remaining troops were preparing for the next phase of their mission.

"Alpha 1, what's your status?" Vincent's voice came through the radio.

"Actual, this is Alpha 1," he responded. "We have regrouped and are ready to move out. The wounded are stable, and we are preparing to push forward."

"Copy that, Alpha 1. Proceed with caution. Alpha 3 and 4 are holding positions at the mine entrance. Your objective is to secure the main road and link up with them."

"Roger that, Actual. Moving out," Alpha 1 confirmed.

Alpha 1 and 2 rejoined and discussed strategies. 

"Perhaps we can disperse the poisonous mist by bombarding the area with high explosive missiles. Is that possible" Alpha 2 suggested.

"Technically, it is possible," Alpha 1 replied thoughtfully. "We can use Viper to clear out those mushroom monsters. That way, when we proceed to the mine, there will be no mushroom monsters or poisonous air to contend with."

Alpha 1 switched frequencies on his radio. "Viper 1, this is Alpha 1. We need you to engage targets on the Sporea Road. The area is infested with mushroom monsters that release a poisonous mist when killed. Use high explosives to clear the path. Over."

"Roger that, Alpha 1. Engaging targets on Sporea Road," Viper 1 acknowledged. 

"Commencing bombardment," Viper 1 reported.

The helicopter's 20mm cannon roared to life, sending streams of high-velocity rounds into the cluster of mushroom monsters and the creatures exploded in bursts of violet mist. 

Next, Viper 1 launched a volley of Hydra 70 rockets. The unguided rockets streaked toward the ground, detonating on impact and creating a series of powerful explosions that tore through the mushroom monsters. The blasts were powerful enough to disperse the poisonous mist, clearing the area.

"Targets neutralized. The area is clear," Viper 1 confirmed.

"Good work, Viper 1," Alpha 1 replied. "We're moving in now. Alpha 2, inform Alpha 3 and 4 to be ready to link up at the mine entrance."

"Copy that," Alpha 2 acknowledged and switched frequencies on the radio. "Alpha 3 and 4, this is Alpha 2. The Sporea Road is clear. We are advancing to the mine, be ready for a link-up."

"Roger that, Alpha 2. We'll be ready," Alpha 3 responded.

With the path clear, Alpha 1 and 2 advanced cautiously along the Sporea Road. Alpha 3 and 4 did the same. They were the ones nearest to the mine entrance so they got there first. Fortunately, there was no enemy in sight; they just waited for the arrival of Alpha 1 and 2.

And they didn't bring their full force with them as they had left them to strip mine to secure the place. They only brought 20 in each platoon. 

Twenty minutes later, Alpha 3 and 4 spotted Alpha 1 and 2, and they relaxed themselves.

"Yow…how long have you been waiting here?" Alpha 1 asked as he raised a fist, wanting to bump it into Alpha 3's fist. 

"Not too long," Alpha 3 replied, returning the gesture with a grin. "Just enough time to secure the area and catch our breath."

Alpha 4 chimed in, "We've got the entrance covered. No sign of any more kobolds or other threats so far."

"Good to hear," Alpha 2 said. "But let's stay sharp. The mine could hold more surprises."

With the teams reunited, they turned their focus to the mine entrance. It loomed before them, a dark, foreboding tunnel that seemed to swallow the light. The soldiers readied their weapons, prepared for whatever lay ahead. 

"Okay…I don't think it would be wise if we entered there with our numbers. We have to cut down," Alpha 2 paused, considering their options. "We need to form smaller squads for this. The mine's passages are too narrow for large groups, and we don't want to be bottlenecked."

Alpha 1 nodded. "Agreed. We'll split into four teams of ten. So each platoon leader will select who gets in or out. I'll choose my ten, and you guys should too because I'm sure our boss is waiting for an update on our progress."

Alpha 2, Alpha 3, and Alpha 4 quickly selected their teams, each choosing their most experienced and reliable soldiers for the mission. The remaining soldiers were assigned to secure the perimeter and maintain communication.

"Okay…seems like everyone is set up. I don't think the tank and the IFV are going to fit so they are staying here. I will report back to our boss."

"Alpha 1 to Actual," Alpha 1 reported over the radio. "We've formed four teams of ten and are preparing to enter the mine. Will update as we progress."

"Copy that, Alpha 1. Proceed with caution. Expect possible resistance within the mine. Maintain radio contact at all times," Vincent replied.

"Roger that."