Port Athens: The Gateway to Battle

The military trucks of the Bernard Empire rumbled along the coastal highway, their diesel engines growling as they carried troops and supplies toward Port Athens. The trucks, painted in olive drab, were a mix of rugged M35 2½-ton cargo trucks and newer M939s, their canvas covers flapping in the wind. Above, UH-1 Huey helicopters buzzed through the sky, their rotors thumping as they escorted the convoy.

Civilians lined the streets, waving flags and holding signs that read, "Bring Our Heroes Home!" and "Victory for Bernard!" The soldiers, seated in the backs of the trucks, waved back with a mix of pride and apprehension. For many, this was their first deployment, while others were veterans of smaller conflicts. But this was different. This was war.

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