November 12, 2025 — 10:20 AM
Forward Agro-Zone One – South Landing Strip
The hum of logistics activity rolled through the airfield like background music to a rising empire. Forklifts transported fuel drums and sensor pods. Engineers checked stress points on the foamcrete landing mesh. In the distance, the recently returned Skyhammer Squadron stood parked in a V-formation, their wings still bearing soot from yesterday's bombing raid.
But Thomas.
His eyes were fixed on his user interface hovering before him.
Purchase Confirmed: KC-135 Stratotanker
Cost: 970,000 Blood Coins
Designation: Valkyrie One
Status: Materializing… Please Stand Clear
Phillip stood beside him, arms crossed, brow furrowed.
"You sure about this?" he asked.
"I've been sure for months," Thomas said quietly.