A Side Quest from Above?

"Comrade Su, watch your words."

General Wang's voice carried a stern edge. "In the face of an apocalyptic disaster, the people of the world must stand united. Humanity is a shared destiny—we cannot afford to turn on one another."

"At times, certain mechanisms force our hand. It's not out of choice that we engage in conflict against our fellow Earthlings."

Mike felt a wave of shame wash over him. His perspective had been too narrow. The world was ending, yet he was still thinking in small-scale terms. He needed to look at the bigger picture—at the fate of the entire planet.

Just as he was about to respond, General Wang continued.

"They refused."

"Huh?" Mike blinked, momentarily thrown off. "Who refused what?"

"Initially, we weren't aware that the repeat battle mechanism would match us with the same opponent. We had planned to continue using the Mad Demons for training, but instead, we accidentally reinitiated another round of apocalyptic warfare against our neighbors."

The general exhaled, sounding almost... relieved.

"Fortunately, the neighboring commander was astute enough not to fall for the insidious trap of the system's rules. They voluntarily forfeited the battle, which—thanks to the system's mechanics—was considered a defeat on their part. As compensation, they generously provided us with two additional war production lines."

After a pause, he sighed with what could only be described as admiration.

"There are still good people out there. They understand that in times like these, distant relatives are no match for close neighbors. We must help each other survive."

"...???"

Mike frowned, his mind churning. Something about this didn't sit right. No, scratch that—something felt very off.

But he wasn't about to call it out. Instead, he nodded in agreement.

"Right. The people of... uh, Sakura Nation sure have a broad-minded perspective."

He had no idea how long this newfound "friendly neighbor" act would last, but for now, it was best to play along. After all, they'd just handed over two valuable production lines—it wouldn't hurt to keep up appearances.

As for whether another "accidental" conflict might arise in the future... well, only time would tell. Mistakes happen, after all.

"So, General, what did you need from me today?"

The shift in topic brought an immediate change in Wang's tone. His voice grew serious.

"About that… Since the establishment of the domestic commander system, we've been closely monitoring the performance of our top commanders."

"Our initial goal was to cultivate strong leaders who would step up to protect the people in these trying times."

"However, things haven't gone entirely as planned. The sudden shift in the world's landscape has led some commanders astray. Not all of them remain true to their original purpose."

There was a pause. Then, the general chuckled.

"Of course, you don't need to worry, Comrade Su. Our assessments place you among the most outstanding commanders. In fact, you're one of the best—an exemplary figure among your peers."

"We've been following your work closely. While some details may not be perfect, it's clear that you haven't lost sight of your duty. You're continuously learning and adapting, striving to become an even better commander."

"More importantly, your strength is exceptional. Among the commanders, your military power stands out, and you've caught our attention."

Another pause—just long enough for Mike to pick up on the weight behind those words.

He didn't hesitate. "So, the higher-ups need me for something, don't they?"

It was common sense. The central leadership couldn't physically intervene in domestic matters. If they needed something done, it had to be through a commander.

"That's correct."

General Wang's response was measured, diplomatic.

"Jinling's current state has exceeded our expectations. We fully support your approach to safeguarding the people."

"However, not all regions have fared as well. Some areas are facing unexpected challenges—far beyond what we had anticipated."

"If you have the time and capability, we would like you to intervene in stabilizing these regions."

"After all, the people of Jinling are our people—but so are those in other cities. Their survival is just as important."

The message was crystal clear.

Mike immediately grasped the subtext and lowered his voice. "You're telling me there are commanders making a mess of things? And they just so happen to be right next to Jinling?"

For the leadership to reach out to him so quickly, the issue had to be both urgent and within his reach. Otherwise, no matter how powerful he was, it wouldn't make sense for him to be their first choice.

"Xinchang and Guangling."

General Wang's voice was grave. "These two locations are close to Jinling, but they've encountered some… unexpected complications. Are you prepared to handle these situations?"

Mike didn't even hesitate. "I'll take care of it."

The speed of his answer seemed to catch the general off guard. "Comrade Su, you're not even going to ask about the details first?"

Mike grinned. "I'm sure you'll tell me everything I need to know."

"Besides, if you've come to me, that means I have the ability to see this through. In times of crisis, those who can help must step forward. I won't back down."

There was a brief silence before Wang finally spoke again, his tone tinged with admiration.

"Your resolve is commendable, Comrade Su."

Without further delay, he laid out the full extent of the situation in Xinchang and Guangling.

"...That's all the intel we have so far. Given our limited means of observation, we can't rule out additional risks in those cities."

Wang exhaled slowly, then added, "Comrade Su, this is not a strict directive. If you find that the situation exceeds your capabilities, prioritize Jinling. Do not spread yourself too thin."

"We do not expect you to solve these crises overnight. The apocalypse has crippled transportation networks, making intercity operations exceedingly difficult."

"We simply ask that you do your best."

There was something cautious in the general's voice—like he was walking on eggshells, trying not to push too hard.

It wasn't hard to figure out why.

The commander system was a gamble. The higher-ups had handed power to a group of civilians and expected them to lead. But now, cracks were beginning to show. If they pushed too hard, they risked alienating the very people they depended on.

This was why Wang was treading carefully. He wasn't issuing orders—he was asking for help.

"We just want you to do what you can," he reiterated.

Mike understood.

"I will see this through," he said firmly. "You have my word."

His mindset had changed. His responsibilities had changed.

This wasn't about personal gain.

A true leader didn't weigh every decision by what they stood to benefit.

When the world was crumbling, stepping up wasn't a matter of profitability—it was a matter of duty.

And Mike knew where he stood.