Translator: Skythewood
Editors: Cwilliams, JcqC, Tear
If we are to send our young ones calmly to their death, there has to be an adult leading them from the front.
── Anson Suez 'Eternal Holand'
U.E. 1924 November 4th First National Defence Ministry, Second Personnel Departnt Office
The man wore the type two uniform of the Federation army. He received a new rank insignia from his superior in the Army Personnel Departnt who had a mask-like smile on his face.
"Congratulations on your promotion, Colonel Anson."
"To be promoted after losing battles, this is the end for our nation huh."
Not agitation or complaints, this was just a remark he blurted out unconsciously.
Normally, this wasn't sothing an officer should say. However, the dire situation the Federation army was in ford a unique atmosphere, which allowed Anson to air such terrible thoughts.
They had lost. Losing the war was certain now. However, there was still so hope.
But it was a hope that would be scoffed at in a room of people who understood the situation and could foresee how things would develop.
"Alright, this is your new rank insignia. I expect great things from you, Colonel."
And that was why the ones who understood the situation were both physically and ntally exhausted. Anger stemd from deep within their heart, and their emotions had already been grinded down by these intense feelings.
"Our holand is currently experiencing a major crisis. We hope you can perform your duties to the best of your abilities. That's all."
"I am honoured for the chance to defend my holand."
"Splendid."
They were simply mumbling the standard dialogues. In the tone akin to that of reciting scriptures, they said words of valour and glory, but they were probably looking down at such empty gestures. Despite saying they should perform their duties, the soldiers could do very little to make up for the horrendous strategical error made by their ho nation.
And so, in response to the masses out in the streets walking around passionately, asking loudly for everyone to save their nation which was in great danger, Colonel Anson could only show an exhausted expression as he despondently spent his gloomy days.
Following protocol, he stepped backwards out of the room after saluting. As he watched the patriotic volunteers being mustered into units and sent off, his feet beca heavier… Just what can this group of innocent young n do when they step onto the battlefield?
"... Such incompetence. It is my misfortune to be born in this nation that could only call on their young to be sent to their death."
This would drive any patriot to tears. The holand he should be defending committed a terrible mistake, resulting in the praiseworthy young n being shipped off to the slaughterhouse. Before he realized it, his tired tear glands beca soaked again, blurring his eyes.
"Colonel Anson?"
Colonel Anson eased the worries of the people before him as he made an oath in his heart. If they had to be sent to their death, then at the very least, he would carry out his obligation faithfully. This stemd from the self-sacrificial feelings of a leader who felt helpless.
If the young ones were to die for their country, then he will accompany them as an adult who would fall with them. This was his solemn resolve to not let them die on their own.
Despite this resolve, mixed in the crowd who was sending the young n off were won carrying young children in their arms with a worried expression. He still couldn't bear seeing them. Whenever he thought about those who would be left behind, his sanity would want to scream. Soone, anyone, please end this nightmare.
He even thought about what hope he could cling on too, or what if the Republic or the other Great Powers could make it in ti, then perhaps the Federation could avoid destruction. But was this really possible? When his thought reached this point, he felt a sense of emptiness for failing to deceive himself. This made Colonel Anson sneer.
He felt that he was forced to the very edge.
The country he should be protecting was losing its life like the sands of an hourglass slipping away. What awaited them was inevitable destruction.
In the face of imminent destruction, even the sense of helplessness was frustrating, and he could only stand there in a daze. He remained adamant in his resolve to go down together with his country and was unfazed by any doubts. But the suffering that would be brought onto his countryn once his nation fell made him shed tears of sadness.
Suddenly, he realized sothing, perhaps influenced by sothing akin to fate. Even if his country was destroyed, that didn't an the end for its citizens. If he couldn't protect his nation─
Then at the very least, he should let the citizens escape. Nations may fall, but the people would still live on. That's right, nations might perish, but nations were built by its people. A perished nation might be rebuilt again. At the very least, if the seeds known as its people were protected, they could dream of their country flourishing greatly in the world again. This would definitely be an arduous journey. But what awaited for them wasn't destruction, but the hope of making the Federation great again.
They weren't constrained by territory, as long as the country could live on in the hearts of the people living on this land, then it wasn't over.
He had to do what he can to evacuate his countryn, this was the greatest obligation for a soldier from a dying nation, sothing worth dying for. No, for soldiers who swore to defend their country, this was a glorious mont for them to serve honourably.
"I found it. That's right, I found it!"
Colonel Anson shouted with hope and determination, making it difficult to imagine that he was wallowing in despair just monts ago. He made an oath to his country. My ho nation, I won't let you perish.
This was also his ho nation he was defending for the sake of his family. He was a father that seldom spent ti with his family. He reflected on this, and with a heart filled with regret, he swore to leave a future behind for his wife and daughter. Only during tis like this, he would rember that he disliked the career in the military. It felt this might be obnoxious and thoughtless yet he still felt joy over this newfound hope.
At the sa ti, on the gloomy faces of the entirely brand new mbers the Council were expressions of resignation and regret, as they tried to grasp for a plan to turn back the ti that was bleeding away from the hourglass.
Starting the war with the Empire was beyond everyone's expectation. Several months ago, the people present in this room were completely stunned when they were notified that war had broken out. They wondered why their ho nation did sothing so reckless. By pushing aside one's ideology or the fantasy that 'this was the right thing to do', if one faced reality, they would see that those arrogant enough to provoke the Empire would invite ruin.
Even though the surprise attack by the Republic halted the gears of destruction temporarily, the situation didn't improve at all. Not just that, even the good news of Dacia Grand Duchy sounding their horn of war ended a few short months later, as they were literally wiped off the map.
The overwhelming military might of the Empire and the sorrowful end of those who challenged them. For those in the know, this was a nightmare that laid out how the Federation would end.
During this process, the Council filled completely with fresh faces were deeply troubled, but still kept up the fight at the frontlines by exhausting the very limits of human intelligence.
"Good news everyone. This might be very late in the ga, but we have finally started working with our allied nations."
In the committee room where the 10 Councillors were gathered, Foreign Affairs Councillor Evansol reported the good news in an intentionally joyous tone as if he was trying to cheer everyone up. Hearing good tidings after so long made them feel a little excited.
Their diplomacy that had fallen into chaos alongside the war had finally obtained a favourable response. Ever since the Republic entered the war, the Federation finally received an answer after apologizing repeatedly to all of her allied states. After the Republic intervened in the war because their encirclent net was in danger of failing, the attitude of the other allied nations began to deteriorate drastically after the death toll started piling because of the war front turning stagnant. When Dacia joined in, they started ignoring the Federation, expressing their stance with cold contempt.
It was clear what they were thinking. 'The situation right now is all because of your reckless actions'. What a certain Republic diplomat blurted out after having too much of a drink explained it all.
"This is indeed good news, but the real intention of the Republic is hoping for us to lessen their burden on the Rhines front, correct?"
Because they understood what the Republic really thought, the ten n Council gave the feeling of emptiness, as if they didn't expect much from this. At the most, the Republic wishes for them to share their burden, and continue fighting as the second front against the Empire.
"Councillor Cassol, your worries are warranted, but the Republic is afraid of making the sa mistake as Dacia."
"In other words, they are worried that after we lose, the Empire will throw the weight of their entire nation against the Republic? I understand, but this is still depressing news."
When he heard about repeating Dacia's mistake, Army Councillor Cassol shrugged unhappily. He had higher hopes than anyone that the intervention of Dacia Grand Duchy would lessen the Federation's burden, so his rebuttal lacked any strength behind them.
"Councillor Evansol, there should be more news correct?"
"Apologies. Not just the Republic, I heard the United Kingdom will provide us aid too. It seems that the common consensus amongst the Great Powers is that they don't want our nation to perish."
Urged by an elderly Councillor, Foreign Affairs Councillor Evansol who was hesitant to speak ntioned the diplomatic stance of a neutral Great Power that was sympathetic to their cause as a separate topic of discussion.
Just like the Republic, this Great Power offered a helping hand because they were unwilling to see the Empire expand their influence. Possessing exceptional naval combat capability, the United Kingdom feared the rapidly expanding Empire, and finally gave the first inkling that they would intervene in the war. Although their intentions were to maintain the strategical power balance, looking from the perspective of power politics, they could be trusted on this.
"Ohh, so we have to sign another gentle Londinium treaty, right? Although we were the ones who broke that agreent."
This was good news. Despite that, nobody in the room was willing to accept their aid. They knew what the Great Powers thought about them breaking the Londinium treaty, so they understood that the helping hand was extended to them with contempt.
"So, what should we do?"
"After analyzing the result of the Dacian War, the Republic told us that our defense of the territories to the rear are too weak, and that could be dangerous."
Unlike the Republic that could stand toe to toe against the Empire on the frontlines, the Federation had to rely on the advantage of their terrain to keep the Imperials at bay. In actual fact, the Imperial Army just didn't think the Federation was a threat, and was sparing minimal effort against them. That allowed the Federation to barely maintain their battle line.
"... I envy those countries with ample national power to spare. Where can we find the numbers to defend our borders?"
The Dostic Affairs Councillor started begrudging the difference in their national power. It was literally as he stated, this problem arises from the vast gulf in national power.
The truth was, just fighting one regional army of the Empire took most of their national power to maintain the frontlines.
"For now, we are relying on the Mage units to guard against deep infiltration. We should remove the seeds of trouble before it blooms."
They did take so asures against sneak attacks to zones behind their frontlines. So far, there were no major changes to the situation, which was one of the few things the nation's leaders took solace in. The most serious event was a brigade of cavalry failing in their attempt to destroy their railway, or the airdrop mission conducted by a small group of mages. All these attacks were successfully repelled with haste by the Federation's Mage unit. Hence, they were confident in stopping the enemy's attack if the invader's numbers were limited.
"The United Kingdom's military expressed concern over an attack by the Empire from the sea."
"Attacking from the sea? But… It might be strange for to say this, but can't we just chase them off the mont the Imperials make landfall?"
Foreign Affairs Councillor Evansol had doubts about it too. There wasn't concrete evidence, but all the military officers from the United Kingdom gave the sa warning, and were gravely concerned about the Imperial Army launching a sneak attack through an amphibious operation. Quoting their words, 'I understand the difficulties your nation is facing, but your coastal defences are too shallow."
"With our main forces tied up, even an invasion force that is limited in number can easily deal a lethal blow to us."
If the landing forces couldn't be stopped in just one of their attempts, they could literally end the Federation by sticking a knife into their backs─ Since he received such a warning, Foreign Affairs Councillor Evansol could only relay the advice to his colleagues with grave concern.
"Councillor Evansol, the navy of the Republic didn't have the capability to stop the Empire from pulling this off. Let say this first, we only have two war vessels!"
Despite all that, they still obtained one last hope.
"This shouldn't be a problem. It isn't public yet, but the United Kingdom had started surveillance on the movents of the Imperial navy. If the need arises, the Republic's fleet will attack imdiately."
In that case…
"Gentlen, the issue is ti. We need to buy more ti."
"We need the Great Powers to intervene. This might be humiliating, but we don't have any other choice. It has co to this, let's do everything that we can."
U.E. 1924 November 5th 14th Imperial Base, Auditorium.
"Welco, Wing Commander!"
Inside the auditorium where all unit mbers had gathered, First Lieutenant Weiss who led the 2nd Squadron stood up and said in a booming voice, then saluted to the Wing Commander. Tanya returned the salute, then gestured for them to sit easy. She then walked slowly to the podium in the center of the auditorium, and nodded with satisfaction after glancing at the troops.
"Good work. I think everyone should have heard the news, we, the 203rd Guerilla Mage Wing received our transfer orders. We are going to Norden."
Tanya was extrely unhappy about this posting order. Using a tone unique to military officers where one's displeasure and emotions were concealed, she submitted a dozen reports to the higher ups through Lieutenant Colonel Lehrgen, protesting about how overworked they were. Recuperating and cooperation training would take four months, and the basic training to improve the fundantals would require another two months. All in all, she should have half a year of leeway. So when the bigwigs considered the unit's training complete after the battle in Dacia that was closer to a live fire drill, Tanya was shocked.
She scanned the unit briefly, and they did look the part of being hardened and confident soldiers. Their field gears were polished to a shine, and their strides were uniform, as if they were asured by rulers. I see, they really resemble elites who have gone through thorough training.
However, the 203rd Mage Wing wasn't as invincible as the General Staff Office believes. As their commander, Tanya's head hurts because of the nurous flaws of the unit. Firstly, during the aforentioned Dacian War, First Lieutenant Weiss committed a mistake because of his adherence to outdated doctrine. Not all of them were affected, but most of the Wing mbers were influenced by such bad habits. And of course, after the baptism of a real battle, the change in their thinking was as dramatic as the Copernican revolution. It wasn't as sudden as Paul's repentance, but she still wanted to complint them for gradually moving onto the correct path. However, it wasn't perfect yet.
"And naturally, the General Staff Office is expecting the sa skill and competence we displayed in Dacia, so prepare yourselves."
Tanya smiled as if she was expecting great things from her subordinates, but she was aware that her smile was a little stiff. But there was a reason for this. Before her was a unit that had yet to experience a trying and real battle. For young pups who had only tasted victory, there were countless examples throughout history of them becoming loser dogs after suffering defeat. Herself included, elites raised in a perfect environnt tend to have difficulties in overcoming unfavourable situations.
"Be proud, you have finally gained the chance to undergo the trial of fire and steel."
No army can keep winning forever. Even Arica who claid they would send their enemies back to the stone age suffered nightmarish ntal trauma because of guerilla warfare, which plagued them for long years. They were liberated from the ntal anguish during the Gulf war, but the price they paid for becoming arrogant was Iraq. The Empire might have one of the top military amongst the Great Powers, but they didn't have the overwhelming military superiority of the super military prowess in Tanya's mories─ Arica. That was why she had to nurture subordinates that could handle unfavourable situations.
If she didn't handle this issue well, not only would she be branded as incompetent, it might even be a matter of life and death. After all, fools who had only fought winning wars were fragile, and wouldn't be able to recover after losing just once. An army that lost its will to fight was just a simple mob. Even with magic technology, there was no way to forge the determined souls of warriors. In a corner of her heart, Tanya felt that those maniacs would be able to do that sohow.
But for now, she had to make do with the cards on her hand. Considering her remarkable improvent in her resu and remuneration, her performance should at the very least justify her wages.
"Ladies and gentlen, Dacia was just a live fire exercise after all. What we have here, is the real war you have been craving for."
Speaking of good news, except for myself, the subordinates I recruited are all fellows with the scent of battle maniacs. Naturally, this isn't news that I would be happy about, but only in this instance, right before we set off for war, I feel grateful about this wondrous fact.
"Give everything you have for the sake of the Emperor and the Fatherland. Do not forget your duties as a soldier."
"Mdm Yes Mdm!" x4
The excellent answer temporary filled her with satisfaction.
From the perspective of human resource managent, there was a need to remind them they had the obligation to put in the effort in exchange for their gains. But from their reaction, there didn't seem to be any problems. But she couldn't let down her guard.
Everyone had to give and sacrifice themselves for the sake of their beloved Empire and ; They had the obligation to give everything they had for the revered Emperor and Fatherland… Fortunately, my subordinates are all tough fellows, and can at least serve as human shields.
It was regrettable that they had the tendencies of battle maniacs, but they were a group of excellent mages who were a pleasure to work with.
"Excellent. Next will be the announcent of the notification from the General Staff Office. First Lieutenant Weiss."
Alright, leave the trivial corporate communications for the deputy to do. After all, this is the reason why the Empire designated the post of deputies and adjutants.
"Yes Mdm. As the Wing Commander said, our wing would be taking on the role of a guerilla force."
According to the ssage from General Staff Office, the 203rd Mage Wing was to be rostered as a guerilla wing. This ant that their deploynt would be different, depending on the regional army they were posted to. After all, they were the first unit designated as a guerilla wing.
Naturally, there were many experintal elents involved, and the higher ups had great expectations to learn a lot from this. The General Staff Office didn't need to coordinate with the regional armies and could deploy this unit freely. If they could et the expectations of the General Staff Office, they wouldn't face too much interference. In other words, they were an independent unit that was easy to order around, and there wouldn't be any issues if they complete the assigned mission in a tily manner. That's right, it wasn't stated explicitly, but they were basically an autonomous unit.
"In other words, the wing will be rushing all over the place within the interior line."
This was the equivalent exchange between authority and responsibility. If anything happens on the frontline, they would be committed into battle imdiately in the hope of resolving the issue. And so, Tanya used one sentence to describe the situation they were in.
"Which ans, the General Staff Office is working us like horses drawing carriages. Rejoice, they seed to have prepared carrots for us."
She didn't know what the carrots were, but she could look forward to the best treatnt during resupply and promotions. Even though she doubted these would fulfil her wishes properly.
"Wahahaha!" x2
Everyone laughed. That's true, they could only laugh. Who would be willing to enter the battlefield for the sake of special allowances. It might be a sizeable amount for officers and generals, but they were rather limited for the rank and file. Taking into account the risk to dying, it was unbelievably cheap. But of course, if a free market system was set up for this, there might be so who would consider the tradeoff acceptable.
When she thought about that, she couldn't help thinking that conscription was a very unreasonable policy. Just like Second Lieutenant Serbiakof who was conscripted just because she had magic potential, it seed that the Empire couldn't spare the effort for personal liberties… That was why Tanya had no other choice but to volunteer to enlist.
If possible, she hoped they can change the conscription policy, or allow her to resign her commission imdiately. It goes without saying that letting her take her bonus and annual remuneration was the minimum condition.
After shaking her head a little to clear her head, Tanya turned towards First Lieutenant Weiss, urging him to continue.
"Attention!"
It pleased Tanya that the unit quieted down imdiately on his command. At least they were trained well enough to follow orders. But this was only natural since they were soldiers.
"Despite what the Wing Commander said, horses aren't that pampered, and won't get their feed for nothing."
With a tone advising caution, First Lieutenant Weiss subtly hinted the unit to show results. Tanya watched approvingly as she added points to the evaluation score of her subordinates. She was convinced that her second in command wouldn't be a problem for the ti being.
No matter who it might be, they would prefer unnecessary expenses. In horse racing, they would want victory; for horses tending the field, they would need to do farmwork; For pedigree horses, they need to pass on their genetics; As for horse drawn carriages, they ran for the sake of feed. If her deputy could understand and explain this point, Tanya would want him as a subordinate and nurture him.
"And of course, we need to prove that we are up to standard for our jobs."
She didn't really want to be a horse. She had never entertained the thought of being reared by others, this was a matter of her pride as a person. But since the carrot had been stuffed into her mouth, it would be a pity not to eat it. But it would be a sha to call herself a reared horse who had to work because of this.
Not having free will was a terrible thing.
"We will be part of a mixed unit that includes forces from the eastern army and southern army, and will be despatched as a unit from central to work under the northern command."
Political pride was extrely retarded. The inability to provide consideration in a rationalized way showed how limited politics were. However, the dictatorship of nobles or emperors had their flaws too. Democracy falling into the hands of the foolish masses probably happened due to the intrinsic flaws in the governntal system. Humans were really political animals.
From this perspective, animals that didn't have the concept of pride might be more rational. However, this might be a misconception caused by being unable to ascertain if they had the concept of pride.
"Regarding this part, the General Staff Office is looking forward to us affirming the experintal tactics in live battles in the north."
As she listened distractedly to First Lieutenant Weiss' briefing, Tanya thought about the nature of this unit. It was an experint. In summary, their unit was directly subordinate to the General Staff Office, a force that couldn't be used by the regional army in the frontlines directly. Putting this another way, the General Staff Office didn't need to worry about the regional army, and could dispatch this unit to missions as they pleased. Thanks to this, Tanya's unit was obligated to follow the General Staff Office's order, and perform live field experints.
She felt like a monkey in a circus being ordered to perform in front of the other monkeys. This borders on being animal cruelty.
The only difference was that the animals had nurous animal protection groups working to stop any abuse. On the other hand, even if the Imperial soldiers scream abuse, no organization would stand up for them. They might be political animals, but humans are also a type of animals. She really wished the kind people saying 'animals are not your food' could show so concern for them.
It goes without saying that this would be better than being pitied by fellows that offers undue leniency.
"... Regarding this, we have to prove that we can conduct group activities on the level of an excursion."
Hence their orders to head north, test the tactics the General Staff Office thought up, and show them the results. An order she was extrely reluctant to follow. Just like how an employee would be sent on a aningless work trip because of company politics.
There should be a limit to wasting ti and resources though. Under most circumstances, the so called revolutionary tactics only had novelty and lacked reliability. Even in the rare case it proved to be useful, how many failed tests would it take before it could be deployed in actual battle? She didn't say it out loud, but no matter how she thought, soone must have issued such missions based on her short stint with the Technological Research, and Training departnts.
But no matter what, showing an anxious face would do nothing to alleviate the situation. Tanya signalled to First Lieutenant Weiss with a look, then nodded leisurely.
"Starting at 1800 hours today, we will head for the rendezvous point via night long range flight. Squadron leaders stay behind after dismissal to discuss the flight plans."
As she glanced at the group staying behind for the discussion, Tanya thought about what to tell them. This was the so called delivering instructions. The creature known as soldier likes to communicate in such a way.
They prioritize ntal revel over wasting ti, a practice she couldn't really get used to. But as a company man, there was no reason to not follow.
And so, Tanya worked hard on delivering her instructions.
"Squadron Captains, sorry for interrupting your chat, I have a few short items that requires your attention."
For those on the Squadron Captain level, it was fine for them to realize so facts. Although she could only hint to them subtly, the attitude of the unit would be different if they understand these facts. It wasn't anything marked confidential anyway.
"Although the continental army has been withdrawn from the battlefield, the northern frontlines were supposed to be tidied up in the first place."
Going by military standards, the Federation could not be considered to be on the sa level as the Great Powers. Yet despite of that, for there to exist troops within the Federation military capable of standing toe to toe with the Empire, it subtlety suggested the involvent of foreign powers behind the scenes. And of course, if we were to go by with the widely proclaid news that their allied nation, the Republic, was lending them a hand, it would be natural to assu that the majority of the foreign assistance ca from them.
Yet herein lies the problem, the appearance of nations other than the Republic intervening in the war despite having declared their neutrality. Although these countries denied intervening at the national level, they quietly kept a closed lid on existence of volunteer armies. Most certainly, several nations such as the Union and the United Kingdom have already started intervening in the war.
In the end, the Federation that was vastly inferior to the Empire that utilized its national powers under the foundation of total war, there was no way they could keep up the fight with just their Mages. Their ability to fend off the impact of the continental army and the pressure from the regional army strongly suggest the scale of the foreign aid they received. That was why this unit was forced to go on an excursion after things in Dacia settled down.
"I said 'should', that ans there is sothing fishy about this. In other words, the existence of a third party."
"Wing Commander!"
First Lieutenant Weiss who was leaving the room turned pale. He probably had so inkling about what Tanya was going to say. The annoying thing was, everyone had things they should and shouldn't say, so the Deputy Commander was right. Considering the situation before them, it would be better for her subordinates to understand early.
"First Lieutenant Weiss, this is just my postulation. My personal opinion."
For now, it would be better to not ntion the neutral Union. She had no intention of stirring up unnecessary troubles. This would affect her promotion prospect, and more importantly, lead to the misunderstanding that her lips were loose. On the other hand, Tanya was worried that the huge victory in Dacia would make her subordinates slacken their guard, and felt the need to increase their vigilance.
"Alright gentlen. I don't know whether they are the Republic, United Kingdom, or people from sowhere else, but there is definitely soone ddling with this war."
Their intrusion was really infuriating. Action that was so true to the rationality of a nation to the point of being irritating, or in other words, a sensible response. Considering the perspective of the other Great Powers, this was on par for the course in protecting the interests of their nations. The citizens of the Republic and United Kingdom must be living a safe and secured life, since their head of states were serious about their national security.
And that was why, unlike the United Kingdom and the Republic that took action expected of a political animal, the Federation that started a war on a whim was more nefarious. Just what had the Federation found so amusing that they went out of their way to pick a fight with the Empire?
Their leaders must be intoxicated by war, and love war so much that they couldn't help themselves. But that might be the reason why the Republic provided aid, unleashing them onto the Empire like an attack hound.
If that was true, it would be strange why the Great Powers would pay attention to a country on the outbacks. Going by common sense, the rulers of most nations won't bother with that place which lacks resources or any benefits.
"In other words, we will be enjoying field trips under the watchful eyes of the world."
There was important significance in being deployed into a battlefield that was the central of focus for various nations. The General Staff Office was probably craving for a speedy victory to display the might of the Empire. Tanya also noted that the intention of high command was to end the war by showcasing the prowess of the Empire.
No matter what, considering the things that were happening under the table, failure wasn't an option. Or else, she would need to steel herself for heavy disciplinary actions. To avoid destruction, she had to act like a model Mage Officer of the Empire.
Hence, despite this not being her intention, she still had to head off into battle cheerfully. If she didn't, she might leave the impression of lacking fighting spirit. The truth was that she didn't, so she had to take all precaution to avoid the suspicion of others.
"What do you think? Isn't this wonderful?"
You must have realized too right? The unit mbers seem to realized it after seeing Tanya's eyes filled with such intention.
"It is wonderful. To think that the General Staff Office would prepare the stage for our public performance."
"Ara, this feels a little like skiing. What a considerate posting."
"I thought the General Staff Office would only hand down impossible missions. Did this really co from the General Staff Office?"
Fortunately, all the mbers pretended to be baited. Ara, my subordinates have better etiquette than expected.
They completely understood the request and adequately protected the pride of their superior. Seeing the situation, Tanya felt there was nothing to worry about.
"Very well, that's how it is, gentlen. It's a rare chance, let's go for an excursion to the north."
Tanya made an expression to show she couldn't wait for battle. With a big smile on her face, she covered up the vulgarities she was about to spill out.
"Dismissed."
C.E. 1924 November 6th Northern Military Zone Kraggana supply depot, defence base.
If the Imperial Viper wing had to describe that day, it would be 'terrible'. After being scrambled, the situation could only be described to be 'terrible'.
The pride of the Imperial Army, the continental forces were redeployed suddenly, which led to the ensuring scenes of chaos. After the Imperial Northern Army command restored order after much tribulations, the Federation recovered from the ashes and rebuilt their frontlines. In conclusion, the northern army spent too much ti consolidating their units when they should be pursuing the routing enemy, resulting in their supply line being overextended.
As a result, the supply depots set up at various locations by the Empire suffered frequent attacks by the Federation. When the Northern forces busied themselves to fend off the assailing units ford by hunters, they were forced to split the units on hand. That's when the Aerial Mages would strike.
The Northern army had fallen for this tactic twice. Although it barely managed to maintain the supplies at the front lines, they couldn't afford another failure. No matter what, they had to stop the next attack. This was the gist of Viper Wing's supply defence mission.
The higher-ups made it sound easy, but for the ones who received the order, this was mission impossible. After all, the Mages of the Federation might have inferior numbers, but they had the freedom of picking the ti and place to attack; On the other hand, Viper Wing had to spread their forces to multiple bases, including the entire supply line.
The biggest headache was the improvent in the quality of the enemy. The remaining Mages of the Federation assault team were fellows who survived since the start of the war. After these troubleso people received new powerful Operation Orbs marked officially as 'origins unknown', but were actually provided by the Great Powers such as the Republic, United Kingdom, United States and the Union, their skills and equipnt improved drastically. The Federation's Assault Mage unit was a threat even the Imperial mages couldn't take lightly.
On top of that, it was hard to keep calm when facing units they first encountered in the northern frontlines, which multiplied the difficulty in troop deploynts. The Federation would even commit new units at tis. If the unit mbers were mostly rookie Mages rushed through training, they would be slaughtered on the spot. But things might get difficult if the occasional 'volunteer Mages' of unknown nationality were mixed in.
"Damn it, it's the Federation's Mages from last ti!"
Therefore, the nurically superior Imperial Mage units were outnumbered during local defence engagent.
In terms of capability, Viper Wing was at the average standard in the Imperial Army. They were veterans with relatively longer experience in that war zone, and underwent the standard Imperial army training. For units that had war experience of a certain level, it was fine to call them a first rate unit.
That was why engaging an enemy unit they feared while outnumbered could only an the situation was terrible.
"That's faster than our estimates! Damn intel departnt, what do you an they are nothing much!"
According to the briefing they received on the Federation Mage's skill and equipnt, Viper wing was already prepared for the enemy to strengthen their ability, which made their tactics of volley fire a stronger threat than before. Going by the report, the enemy might have improved in combat capabilities, the Imperials should have a marked advantage in the quality of individual soldiers.
That was why Viper wing was still confident in carrying out their defensive missions despite the possibility of being outnumbered. They thought they could maintain air superiority through better individual combat capability and the guidance of air controller. Despite their inferior numbers, they didn't think they would lose.
Hence, they absolutely loathe the intel departnt and their predecessors whose reports were unreliable. This could definitely be explained away as being influenced by the fog of war, but the ones to suffer were always the units at the front. If the conditions were completely different from the one given, it was natural to complain about it.
"Eh, Commander?"
To his subordinate who wandered carelessly into the enemy's' sight of fire, red blossoms appeared on the Wing commander.
Fortunately, only his mobility was affected montarily, leaving trails of random evasive actions in the air. Seed like he didn't black out, which ant his life wasn't in imdiate danger. But looking at it superficially, the wound was rather serious.
As they moved as a team and covered each other, what flashed across their minds was that the equipnt that was powerful enough to pierce the defensive shell of an Imperial mage wasn't the standard for the Federation. Despite the doubts in their hearts, they continued engaging with their spells. A chaotic battle broke out after the Federation got into lee range, but the Wing Mages fulfilled their duties as soldiers.
"... I was too careless. Sorry 02, the rest is up to you."
"Yes Commander! 07, 13, you can't keep up, fall back together with the Wing Commander."
After taking over command, 02 changed the way he was thinking. The Wing Commander was out of commission, and would need escorts in order to retreat. In that case, he had to send his injured or tired subordinates to cover the retreat. It was an unexpectedly tough battle, but the enemy's losses was just as bad. He just needed to hold the line─ 02 encouraged himself, feeling troubled about the numbers in his Wing falling by half. About one squadron worth of Mages had retreated, and half a squadron was shot down, falling to their death. Their combat potential fell by half, and the enemy was having it hard too, but their determination to assail the supply depot was extraordinary.
"CP, do you read ? This is 01. Command of Viper Wing had been transferred to my deputy."
"CP acknowledge. Viper02, do you copy?"
Even the voice of CP sounded tense. The duty squadron deployed in front of them had already lost the ability to put up a coordinated fight. The anti-air weapons that were effective against enemy Mages had all been broken through. Only the hastily set up anti-air weapons near the supply depot could defend the rear lines now. They might survive a light attack, but there was no way it could handle a large scale enemy Mage attack.
"Loud and clear. This is Viper02. I will take command in lieu of the injured Wing Commander."
What should he do? He tried to think about it calmly, but if there was a god in this way, he was definitely a sly bastard.
"CP acknowledge… Bad news. Ergency, we have visuals on two squadrons in the northeast zone. They are approaching your area of operation."
"Reinforcents? How did those fellows have the manpower to spare?"
He couldn't stop himself from pulling the radio away and yelling. The enemy Mages that were cutting down his comrades into pieces and shooting them down, and there was more than one squadron of them. The Federation already committed two Wings of mages. Adding the incoming squadrons, they actually committed a Group of Mages to one asly supply depot?
This wasn't just the matter of the intelligence departnt being incompetent, the Federation had more troops than expected.
"Viper02 to CP, I have a proposal."
It was difficult to continue engaging the enemy here. Their only option was to use the supply depot as a shield, and fight a defensive battle by allowing so losses to their supplies. If they were unwilling to accept limited losses, the unit might get wiped out, which would result in the supply depot being ravaged literally. With this in mind, 02 raised CP on the radio.
"Ergency, please expedite. Our Wing is taking heavy losses. Unable to continue engagent. Please permit imdiate withdrawal, to the supply depot."
If they could pull back and work together with the mage and anti-air defences behind, their heavily damaged Wing could defend to their best abilities. Although that would risk damaging the supply depot, there was no other way to keep up the fight.
With the remaining Mages he had on hand, they would just be picked off one by one. In that case, it would be better to rally with the remnants of the Wing, and engage the enemy from a defensive position. They will end up losing so of their flesh over this, but compared to having their bones crushed, it was a much better outco.
"CP acknowledge receipt of your proposal. We will check with high command, please stand by for five minutes."
Normally, five minutes was outstandingly efficient, evidence that the bureaucratic CP understood how dire the situation was. This was a speedy response that one should be happy about, but those on the front lines couldn't help thinking 'You need five minutes?'
Three hundred seconds. During this ti, how many tis do they need to evade the enemy's attack, and engage how many foes?
"Please hurry, our vanguards are taking a beating!"
The vanguards who had contact with the enemy for the longest period of ti during this chaotic battle were exhausted. Forget about putting up an organized resistance, they were at their limits just defending themselves. Even though their priority was to stall the enemy, they couldn't hold on for long. Just staying airborne was a considerable burden. It might be easy to talk about evasive spells, but only those who tried it out themselves would understand how difficult it was. No matter what, they could only keep defending until they receive orders to withdraw.
… His judgent was logical, but wasn't permitted.
"First Lieutenant, multiple crafts spotted at 2 o'clock. Bombers."
His subordinate who was keeping a lookout reported with a tone of despair. This was the worst enemy to face at the worst ti. These beings flying leisurely in the air were giant chanical birds loaded with huge amounts of bombs too cumberso for humans to bear. They were bombers which had yet to be spotted in the northern battleline before.
"Ugh, their altitude!?"
"9500 feet."
He asked with a glimr of hope, but received a rciless answer. The implication behind this answer sent a chill down his spine.
Altitude of 9500 feet. This was too high for Mages, but was low for the bombers. They could even drop bombs with a certain level of accuracy from this height.
Needless to say, they had sturdy armour too. Even if the Mages pursue the bombers, they just need to raise their altitude to shake them off. Engaging a heavily armoured bomber with such a difference in altitude was too heavy a task for Mages. That was why airplanes were always the ones fighting for air superiority.
However, if the only units available was a Mage Wing, then there was nothing they could do. Engaging two Wings and bombers was an impossible task.
"Viper02 to CP! Ergency update."
"This is CP. Viper Wing, just what…"
"Confird visuals on multiple bombers! Visual estimate on their altitude to be 9500 feet. Difficulty in engaging them. Please reinforce with reserved allied forces."
Just what is the matter? Before CP could finish leisurely, 02 interjected and continued talking.
Bombers were heavy and lack agility, but they were fast. Fighter planes had a speed of around 250 mph, while bombers were between 200 - 220 mph. Mages were about 230 mph. They could increase their speed to 250 mph to match, but that ant flying in only a straight line.
The true intention of the enemy was to perform a bombing mission and take out the Mages at the sa ti. Worst of all, they had limited ways to respond. The enemy was wily and smart.
"Bombers? Please advise scale and direction."
"They are to our 2 o'clock. About 20 aircrafts spotted."
It might just be 20 aircrafts, but the losses from a bombing under such conditions would be disastrous. If the fuel in the supply depot were bombed, the front line units would have a freezing winter ahead of them.
And of course, their adversary knew this, that's why they not only dispatched Mages, but they even committed bombers too. This was what it ans by 'things can only get worse'.
"CP acknowledged. Can you engage?"
Who the hell can!? 02 suppressed the urge to lash out.
"The altitude difference is too big, and we are still currently engaging enemy Mages. It will be difficult to proceed with long-distance sniping."
Simply put, they couldn't do it. Even under normal conditions, it would be difficult to take out enemy bombers that were 3500 feet away. Even if the unit was in pristine condition and fired volleys, it would only be in the realm of 'plausible'. If they had to do so while engaging in a chaotic fight with the enemy Mages, it would be downright impossible.
"... No matter what, you must prevent Kraggana supply depot from being bombed."
"Even if we were to fight to the last unit, it will be impossible to succeed."
Although CP had earnestly implored for a confirmation, the task remained impossible to complete. Everyone had things they could and couldn't do, and the Wing was doing the best that they could. The acting Viper Wing Commander replied cockily, with a hint of resignation and sarcasm in his voice. Considering the situation laid before him, he would be wiped out no matter what he did.
Alright then, so they want us to fight to the end with the resolve of being wiped out? For such ironic thoughts to have flashed across his mind, it appears that he had a surprisingly open outlook about it. Maybe it was ti for him to finally prepare for his resolve.
Just when he began to contemplate this...
"Acknowledged… ... What? Really?"
He heard whispers, yelling and noises inside the command post. Sothing was happening there.
"CP? What happened, CP?"
"CP to Viper Wing, retreat imdiately."
CP gave the withdrawal orders he was hoping for, in a tone that didn't allow any refute. But they actually issued such an order in this dire situation, what happened?
"We are permitted to retreat? I'm grateful, but is it really fine?"
"Rejoice, it's our reinforcent. A Wing is rushing to scene from zone B-3. After linking up, you will be rostered under their command."
Reinforcents? Where did such a thing ca from at a ti like this? If there were reserves, why were they fighting so desperately?
"This is the first ti I heard about reinforcent. If you had reserves, just deploy them from the start."
"They are an ergency dispatched unit from central. Call sign Pixie."
His complaints were ignored, and he was given new information. Since they were reinforcent from central, that ant they were caught in this battle the instance they arrived on site. There was no doubt that the unit arrived ahead of schedule, and the relieved headquarters threw them into the battlefield imdiately.
"And be glad, the commander of the reinforcing unit is a Nad."
That made him forgot his earlier protest, and gave him the urge to whistle.
Wonderful. Simply wonderful. One Wing of reinforcent and a Nad. This was like the presents for Thanksgiving and Christmas coming at the sa ti. If possible, he would like to welco this honoured guest with champagne.
"Viper02 acknowledged. What an extravagant reinforcent."
With such plentiful reinforcent, no wonder the higher ups permitted his retreat. Despite his urge to cheer loudly, he still felt it was a pity that they didn't co earlier.
He then realized that when humans receive salvation from despair, they will beco rather greedy. He smiled wryly because of that. Despite knowing that such complaints were unreasonable, he still thought shalessly: If those guys ca earlier, we wouldn't have had such a hard ti.
It would be perfect if they have support from fighter planes. Their numbers were limited, but the fighter planes should be scrambling soon. The corners of his lips turned up when he thought about this. His heart beca lighter after knowing the enemy was about to get rekt.
"When will the fighter planes launch?"
"... They are judged to be unnecessary."
But the answer he got shocked him.
No need for fighter planes?
"Hah?"
02 wanted to ask what he was talking about.
"Don't mind it, just rendezvous with the reinforcent quickly."
"... Copy."
Sa Ti Northern Regional Command.
When the staff officers in the northern army command post staring at the battle map troublingly heard news they didn't want to hear──
The deputy director of Operations that ca all the way from the General Staff Office handed a them a notice. It was an intervention from central, but the wording was very concise.
'Reinforcent dispatched, no need to interfere.'
"Damn you, General Staff Office, you want to ddle with the front lines too?"
What an arrogant way of putting it─ It was understandable for the high ranking officers of the northern army to complain. After all, when they just spent trendous effort to organize the continental army that was dispatched to them, most of the forces were diverted to the west the very next instant. The sudden large scale change in deploynt threw a spanner into the northern army, and they were just about to say that central command was finally willing to provide support. After causing the north to fall into chaos and go through so much unnecessary suffering, anyone would want to complain about it.
According to the observation unit, a Wing of Mages were closing in fast.
I see, they are outstanding reinforcents indeed. They are dispatched here imdiately after the request, so the concept of quick reaction holds true. But telling us to not interfere when we offered support can be considered excessive interference with the frontlines.
"No, maybe they sent us an amazing elite unit?"
But from another perspective, this might be a chance for Central to redeem themselves.
Looking from the viewpoint of Central, they probably felt bad about pulling away the continental army before the war had concluded. There was no way those prideful bunch would lower their head in apology. They probably think that they couldn't make up for their mistake, but they could call it even with this.
"... They want to put us in their debts?"
"But no need to interfere? That's gutsy."
Even then, they actually dare to turn down help. Even if they wanted to earn favours, the supply depots in the north were really dangerous places. One misstep and the supply line that was on the verge of breaking will collapse, and the bigwigs must have considered the risk.
"Given the danger the northern supply line is facing, that is incredible confidence. I am envious."
An arrogant notice from central. It was only natural for those on the ground to speak sarcastically. But the next piece of news left them even more stupefied.
"An incoming call from 203rd Aerial Assault Wing. It's Wing Pixie, that is…"
The approaching reinforcents had made contact with them. Customarily speaking, that would be limited to formal communications such as exchange of call signs. However, the signaller was hesitating this ti in saying it out loud.
"Enough, get on with it."
The baffled staff office pressed him, and the signaller finally said the content out loud.
"No need for support. Let Viper Wing withdraw imdiately. That's what it says."
No need for support? They want the Wing that had been engaging the enemy to retreat? Rather than calling it overconfidence, this was closer to reckless bravado.
Two Mage Wing and bombers on top of that, it was hard to imagine a Mage Wing that just endured a long forced march could handle.
Leaving the enemy to a unit under a Wing Commander that couldn't even understand this? That wasn't possible.
"... How long before the fighter planes can take off?"
"They are standing by in the hangar. They are ready to scramble on command."
Several staff officers started planning the intercepting course. They didn't have much ti to increase altitude, but once the fighter planes get into the air, it would keep the bombers in check to so degree.
They were grateful for the reinforcent relieving their Mage unit that got caught in a dire situation… But should they do what they can to stop the bombers in spite of the ssage from their reinforcent? They harboured such questions.
"Should we scramble? This doesn't look good."
"No, this is an order. If you scramble…"
He stopped himself from saying 'you will be acting out of line', but his statent embodied how troubled the Northern Army staff officers felt.
Staff officers didn't have the authority to take action without orders. Their job was to formulate battle plans, but they were not in the position to make any calls. That was the difficult part of being a staff officer. And ironically, the one who took care of their worries was the one who caused them in the first place, Pixie.
"Airborne control has detected Pixie. 48 in number, speed 250mph, altitude…"
The Airborne control plane patrolling in the sky detected Pixie Wing approaching. The speed was the upper limit of 250mph. It was clear that the unit was well trained, since they could fly in formation at such a speed.
"That is fast. Hmm? What about their altitude?"
Perhaps they could raise their expectations a little. As hope welled out from the hearts of the staff officers who asked for the altitude...
"Altitude 7500 feet? No, they… they are still rising."
"What?"
"Are you certain? They are not fighter planes."
The 6000 feet limit was the common sense derived from the lessons learnt from live battle. There were records of units operating at 8000 feet, but unless that they saw it themselves in live battle, that would be hard to believe.
The numbers stated by engineers that could be reached theoretically, and the numbers achieved by front line units had completely different weight. The creature known as soldiers would be completely skeptical about new machines, weapons and technology. Their job was to bet their lives on how well these things work, so such skepticism was healthy.
That was why everyone present accepted the results before them humbly. That was the weight which facts that was proven in live battle carried.
"There is no mistake. Pixie Wing is now at 8000 feet!"
"Ugh, they accelerated! Speed is 300mph!"
Most unbelievable of all was their drastic increase in speed.
The truth was, this speed could only be achieved during research experints. However, a front line unit flying in formation was showing such numbers. If there wasn't any mistake, this information clearly showed that the Wing possessed a capability on a completely different realm.
Was this real? If that was so, their performance was definite enough to make all other units obsolete.
"Are the observation apparatus on the Airborne control working properly?"
"No other abnormal values detected… All functions are normal."
All the staff officers showed incredulous expressions.
"... Looks like the General Staff Office has been hiding an incredible ace in the hole."
"There should be a limit on how incredible it can be."
The only thing they could say was that they were glad this unit was on their side.
United Kingdom Volunteer Army Frontline Headquarters
"It's a Nad! Detected a Nad to the west! According to the signatures, it is the Devil of the Rhine."
The observation trooper shouted in alarm, and drew the attention of everyone in the headquarters. It was news about a Nad designated as fictional appearing.
Said to have easily soar beyond the boundary of death.
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