49 YBP - Day I:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJXuBGqrk9l
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As the first blush of dawn kissed the eastern sky, casting its ethereal glow upon the beleaguered city of Worcester, I, now bearing the prestigious rank of Lieutenant General and the plum and gold uniform with the insignia of two crossed sabres surmounted by a crown. There were only a few people in the army that outranked me now: the four Grand-Generals of their respective army groups - of which three were present, Constantine E. Pride of the 1st Infantry Army Group, Erwin Valour of the 2nd Infantry Army Group, and Reinhart Steelraine of the 4th Artillery Army Group - and the Marshal.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68AmIOdNIO
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The Marshal of the Grand Army was Resiak Zu Scipio, a rather nervous man - likely why he got the promotion, the Marshal represents the army to the Earl and provides counsel.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyVhA1YTvN
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In practice, the Grand-Generals are more powerful than the Marshal - who is basically a figurehead.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlG3f7J8aTY
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I was upon the towering rampart that encircled the city of Worcester, the capital of the Earldom, and my home. The sight of thick walls being patrolled by soldiers aught to have been a comfort to me. It was not - the sight made me feel me melancholy at best and quietly wrathful at worst.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhzVx96Ikm
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There had not been time to evacuate the capital, a fact that was taken advantage of by the 1.5 million soldiers present in Worcester - they recruited children to transport orders, men that were either too old or ill to fight were recruited into logistics roles instead.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwDQNiNMe6
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A quick look through a spyglass and even a fool would know that we would have to fight: the Aquilorians and Vorantine had set up Artillery outside the city and had formed a ring around Worcester, it was clearly meant to be a siege but that would never work - Worcester had been preparing for something like this by stockpiling food. The capitol of the Earldom had enough provisions to last for at least six months, even with 1.5 million hungry soldiers and artillerymen present. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HSBrNfChh
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The Meritocratic Council of Aquiloria and the Technocratic Directorate of Vorantis seemed to think that cracking Worcester open like a nut was the most effective method to take it. I had not received any orders about repelling attacks, so I took matters into my own hands.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzFu3AC6svo
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Beside me stood four Grand Warlords - two of them were freshly minted and the other two were faces I recognised, Caesar and Orion. Their eyes were ablaze with rage as they surveyed the sprawling battlefield that lay stretched out before us. Of the 1.5 million men, 250,000 were my own. I had 12,500 Artillery as well - an eighth of the artillery available.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmdhQsZQc7
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"I come from here, many of thou do not. But if we lose Worcester, we will probably lose the war. What shalt happen when the Dominion get it's hands on thy home?"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRkFZ4dNxyl
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A thunderous roar of approval erupted from the ranks of my men, and hundreds of place names were belted out with gusto. Yet even as their cheers echoed off the stone walls, I knew that the true test of their mettle lay just beyond the horizon, where the enemy laid in wait like a hungry beast poised to strike.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7e98ypRk0u
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The first sign of the impending storm came in the form of distant thunder, as the enemy's artillery voiced its disdain about our stout defences. Shells shrieked through the air, their explosive payloads landed in the city. The Coalition - likely the Aquilorians - had trainedtheirr fixed artillery guns far too high. The enemy surged forwards, they would probably attempt to blow the walls upiff they get near enough.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDrQF5KX9JX
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"Return fire!" I bellowed, my voice a rallying cry amidst the clamour of battle. "Let them learn how to train artillery properly!"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4TTLhifWo3
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Withpractisedd efficiency, my men sprang into action, manning the Howizers that lined the walls with a precision born of years of training. The air was soon thick with the acrid scent of gunpowder and the deafening roar of friendly big guns as our own artillery answered the enemy's barrage with a ferocity that matched their own.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByg5g2E1Uy
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Yet even as we unleashed hell upon our foes, it became painfully clear that the odds were stacked against us. Wave after wave of enemy soldiers crashed against our defences like a relentless tide, their sheer numbers threatening to overwhelm us at every turn. Soldiers were felled by rifle fire from below, men quickly stepped in to replace them. Bands played martial tunes to keep morale up.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOytZElL92j
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A cold sense of dread began to gnaw at the edges of my consciousness, for I knew that our valiant stand upon the walls of Worcester could only delay the inevitable for so long. The plan was to delay the enemy until the Grand Narcissian Fleet arrived and obliterated the attackers. Grand Wing A, Centre Force, and Grand Wing B are all days away due to being deployed to fight against the Khagan's Navy (That the Khagan's Aerial Fleet had yet to make an appearance according to the gossip and rumours)178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUg1RxGvdPr
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Valour has shown me the response that he had gotten from Aeroadmiral Empyr.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkS83zJxxkc
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Dear Grand-General Valour,178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaBwCIHjAez
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I have received thy request for aerial support and have carefully considered the deployment of our air assets to aid in the defence of Worcester. In response to your urgent plea, I have mobilised all available craft to aid the defence of Worcester.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHEtxYzcKh
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Battlecruisers:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgpanBMSMA
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• GNA Callisto 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08VjECFoKK
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• GNA Celeste 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0Uv4UfPdD
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• GNA Tauri 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA7Xk3Zubbg
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• GNA Zosma 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzOB4USZviO
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• GNA Rêverie178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLWOX19BUdX
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• GNA Invictus 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK9jU1aAYyl
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• GNA Roma 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1MMALzBDG3
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Heavy Frigates:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmUqwSqfai
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• GNA Rumine Dora 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoUnd1oQUX
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• GNA Oblitus Icaria 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1uDRXod5Jn
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• GNA Cor Ferro 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrxnA2h7b9k
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• GNA Rix Erinè 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAv8Lgr4H0y
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• GNA Sol Indiges178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDE0vSJl1k8
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Frigates:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9YZRdk32iJ
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• GNA Eir178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3ybCCN2XY
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• GNA Prinz Nar178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbnKVWnqjHa
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• GNA Großer Kurfürst178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKJixH8xcF
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• GNA Empyr178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrprZDMU4OX
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• GNA Hildr178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdQnLtWgDcy
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• GNA Róta178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTqfjD1pxow
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• GNA Göndull178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEuB0fdcV8k
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• GNA Hervör Alviter 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgWy3OPbCt
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Destroyers:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4B3slOmbZd
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• GNA Estoc178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfqIXmkUz7I
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• GNA Falchion178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtpOk85i9W3
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• GNA Glaive178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIlfFTjz1Qm
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• GNA Épée178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoahAZhIIiN
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• GNA Arbalest178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡflYTYeh3u2
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• GNA Tonfa178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK4Pm4EVQJp
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I trust that this aerial reinforcement will provide the necessary firepower and tactical advantage needed to turn the tide of battle in our favour. The craft should arrive within two days of this letters arrival.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCu0BSXpdu5
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Ad Astra Per Aspera! 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcH237a6pSW
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Empyr, Aeroadmiral of the Grand Fleet178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MHalCcRHI
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Under the cover of night, the relentless bombardment of artillery continued. The thunderous rumbles echoing through the darkness like a symphony of destruction. Shells screamed overhead, their fiery trails illuminating the sky as they arced towards their targets with deadly precision.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgaxc83LDL
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The incessant barrage served not only to rain death and destruction upon the enemy below but also to keep them on edge, our fitful attempts at rest shattered by the constant onslaught. The booming concussions of exploding shells and the shrill whistles of incoming fire served as a grim reminder of the perilous reality that surrounded them, denying them even a moment's respite from the relentless onslaught.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl3Ge3UfTNs
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For us, the ceaseless din of battle had become a cacophony of chaos, an ever-present backdrop to our struggle for survival. Yet amidst the chaos, there was a grim determination, a steely resolve that refused to yield in the face of overwhelming adversity.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5CSl9YBfC
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As the night wore on and exhaustion threatened to claim us, we stood resolute, our spirits unbroken by the relentless assault. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2a5wFJ7xcI
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Day II:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIibuqkRgG
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The second day of the Defence of Worcester was signalled by loud shouts rousing everyone who had managed to fall asleep.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwMTxSia12
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There were missing explosives and 25 men were absent. It was presumed that an unauthorised suicide attack had been carried out by the missing men.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrUaQx9n7ek
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As the morning mist began to dissipate, revealing the stark silhouette of the enemy encampment beyond the walls of Worcester, a party approached under the banner of a white flag. Their footsteps echoed softly against the damp earth. Interestingly, despite bearing a flag of peace, they had brought one of those armoured flame projector units - The fact that it had been painted white did not provide much in the way of reassurance.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpIciRpWaLm
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I observed their approach from atop the walls my gaze unwavering as they drew near. Their demands were clear even before they reached our gates, they were visibly armed.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5XIeqxIx3h
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With cautious steps, i moved down to join the soldiers on the wall, they saluted upon noticing my presence. With a heart pounding in my chest like a war drum heralding the onset of battle. I was given a device to amplify my voice.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyqvPsgVNS
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"What is the meaning of this?" I demanded, my voice cutting through the tense silence like a knife. "Why have thou come here under the guise of peace, only to bring such a weapon of war with thou?"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhp6CmBQbMM
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The leader of the Vorantine delegation was tiny from up on the wall, but i could practically see him scoff, his features likely twisted in a mask of contempt. "We demand thy surrender," he spat, his words dripping with venom. "Surrender the city, or face the wrath of our fury."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bhejZmZai
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It was my own turn to scoff. "Thou overestimate thy strength, Coalition" I retorted, my voice ringing with defiance. "We would sooner jump down to meet thou with ropes around our necks."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYc4FkMO4Rr
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A tense silence hung in the air, broken only by the sound of our ragged breaths and the distant rumble of artillery in the distance. And then, in a sudden flash of violence, the fragile facade of peace shattered like glass.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgeyFXgHVLp
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Without warning, a shot rang out, the crack of gunfire echoing off the stone walls of the city. In the blink of an eye, chaos erupted as the Narcissian soldiers reacted with swift and deadly force, their weapons trained on the enemy delegation in a hail of bullets and bloodshed.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVrph3ni0o
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Amidst the cacophony of screams and gunfire, the white flag fluttered limply in the breeze, stained crimson with the blood of those who had dared bring it with anything but peaceful intentions. I went to the command tent in the city - the High-Exarch of Worcestershire had prohibited the use of civilian building for military purposes until there is absolutely no choice - in order to inform the Grand-Generals of my suspicion that there would be a massive assault soon.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcSSzAEX2V0
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Grand-Generals Pride, Valour, and Steelraine stood clustered around a map spread out upon the table, their brows furrowed in concentration as they pored over the intricacies of our precarious situation. I recognised that it was a map of Worcester, there were multiple symbols dotted about on it - designating positioning of artillery groups - potential weak points were circled - the main gate around the walls that aught not to be here in the first place was a big one.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Xaw6GKxyD
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"Grand-Generals," I began, my voice cutting through the subdued murmurs of conversation like a blade through silk. "I have grave news to report."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmETeYz6qM
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Their heads turned in unison, their eyes meeting mine with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. I wasted no time in relaying the events that had transpired at the walls and what it could mean.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl3oc62JFFn
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Unfortunately I w, s interrupted by music being played at a nearly deafening volume. Grand-General Steelraine identifies it as being the Aquilorian / Vorantine anthem.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPuSTNygRVz
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As the joint anthem reverberated across the battlefield, its haunting melody swept over us like a chilling wind, carrying with it the weight of impending doom. The music, a is iumphant yet melancholy piece with a distinctive melody that rec is gnisable across Empyrea.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwodfudGZpG
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Amidst the haunting melody, the lyrics, or rather the lack thereof was, deeply unsettling, all the other Empyrean anthems had lyrics and without them they seemed almost empty.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64CfoOn32Z
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The enemy's psychological assault continued unabated - albeit not very effectively - but a new threat emerged from the depths of the battlefield - the sudden onslaught of Aquilorian and Vorantine forces, their ranks swarming like someone gave an anthill the size of a mountain an almighty kick.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6AT9Wz8VB6
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Caught off guard by the ferocity of the enemy's attack, our forces scrambled to respond, their movements hampered by the chaos and confusion of battle. Men shouted orders amidst the din of combat. We had 50,000 artillery - half were Mortars and the rest Howizers.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WXKI40lWi
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With each thunderous blast, the ground beneath us trembled, sending shockwaves rippling through our ranks as bodies were torn asunder by the savage force of the explosions. Limbs were rent from torsos, flesh seared by scorching shrapnel, as the enemy's artillery exacted a heavy toll upon our forces.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2sumd3RdS
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Amidst the carnage, the air was thick with the acrid stench of burning flesh and gunpowder, mingling with the metallic tang of blood that hung heavy in the air. Men screamed in agony as they were torn apart by the merciless onslaught, their cries lost amidst the cacophony of battle.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7vN7dDteE
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Everywhere was the same: men shooting at the enemy, mostly with the standard issue Narcan-Gloriant 63 bolt-action rife, in addition to the tripod mounted Richard Mk II machine gun - often affectionately nicknamed "Big Dick"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFNLyDU74fT
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Several officers were brandishing spyglasses or binoculars as well as the same sabre and pistol type as my own - although my own sabre was more decorated.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ZuDR7QHKR
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Flare launchers were typically only used by the artillerymen, I observed one firing one into a group of enemy soldiers, the Mortar next to him fired three times in succession, I watched bombshells impact and continued on my way.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWLsSyYX6tm
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I could hear the gravelly growl that was Lord Sergeant-Major Aurora's voice nearby, the man was wielding a viscous two-handed war scythe, I had forgotten that Aurora came from the subregion of Valerium - the High-Exarch of Valerium has a war scythe as his symbol of office, it represents the agricultural aspects of Valerium.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtID2E3cma9
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The other High-Exarchs also had symbols of office. I knew that the High-Exarch of Worcestershire had a rapier - to represent the gracefulness of penmanship. When I was a mere Ego Lieutenant my men had engaged in banter about each others subregions, I had learned that the Exarchs of Xyrolith, and Chalcrystis have a staff of crystal and a spear - possibly to represent craftsmanship? 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnILlqhtEaY
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The High-Exarch of Luxequinox interestingly lacks a ceremonial weapon. No one seems to know why. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx77gycJrvr
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I approached Grand-General Pride just after noon. Everyone was tired by this point.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqVGtXBdoK
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"Grand-General," I began, my voice heavy with concern. "The casualties continue to mount, and our defences are being sorely tested by the ferocity of the enemy's assault. We've lost many good men today, and the fighting shows no signs of abating."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqSLjVWYOy
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Pride's expression hardened at my words, his steely gaze betraying the gravity of the situation. "Indeed, Lieutenant General," he replied, his voice tinged with grim resolve. "The enemy shows no mercy, and their relentless onslaught threatens to overwhelm us at every turn. 80,000 dead is the most conservative estimate I have been given."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1Svnmq3YB
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As we spoke, reports of incidents and skirmishes continued to filter in, each one a testament to the chaos and confusion that reigned on the battlefield. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvmsGvg8YB
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Pride listened intently, his brow furrowed in deep thought as he considered the implications of each report. "We must remain vigilant," he said, his voice low and measured. "The enemy's tactics are cunning, but they art not aware of the airships coming to save us."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuo0xXvaklb
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"Valour told me about that, sir." I said through gritted teeth. Grand-General Pride was well connected and had got his rank from nepotism - something that was endemic in Narciss - and I hated him for it.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NYpEGgXNN
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"7 Battlecruisers, 5 Heavy Frigates, 8 Frigates, and 6 Destroyers! Aeroadmiral Empyr is a good friend or mine, no wonder he has sent so many airships!"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqiECy8eH8
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"Yes sir."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHiAk9BAnF
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"We just need to last a few more days."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKdeT2bRxJZ
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"And so we shalt, Grand-General."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Swmweia4x
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I got away from Pride as quickly as possible, I spent the rest of the day in my quarters contemplating tactics.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ33Nqt8SpPG
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Day III:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbHL3ez7tqD
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We were awoken by bugle calls at dawn. That could never have been a good sign.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiRHDRwS9p3
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And indeed, it was not. I needed to know what was going on. I stopped the first person that I recognised - Lieutenant Dawnstar. "What is going on?" I asked the terrified man. A massive force is attacking us!" the Lieutenant snapped at me, running to his Platoon. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTVOKl2JAR3
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I ran up the steps of the fortified wall surrounding the city, what I saw down below shocked me. There were at least ten much larger armoured units barrelling towards the gates. There were at least 400,000 soldiers, the bulk of them moving to launch an attack on the gate.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjIiGT8TvH
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I spirited to find my superiors. I only found Grand-General Steelraine. "Where Is Gr-" I began, but the Artillery Grand-General cut me off. "Pride, being the fool that he is, took 500,000 men and went out to lead the attack personally. Grand-General Valour went with him and took all my mortars to protect the bugger." Steelraine looked so very much like a witty artists impression of what an anthropomorphic ammo store about to detonate looks like, I knew the feeling well.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtKv0qEU2LG
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"How many Coalition men are not involved in this attack?" I asked.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvuCp8Mvnvm
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"At least another 400,000. That's only if the bloody Dominion doesn't arrive to make this mess even worse."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWmVnlqbXNo
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"We can probably help with what men are left and the Howizers, Sir."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxWwm4o1xl
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"Drop the Sir, Worce. I haven't the patience for it at this moment. We don't need to move the Howizers, ordered them into new positions already."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUDjai2Eshe
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"I see."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaJAYOXXIGm
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"Move!"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUGUq5qcVRE
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I did. We moved down to a long row of Howizers, the barrels aimed, the operators read. In short, they were ready.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2szpOEJUwX
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"What are our orders, Grand-General Stee-" Began one of the soldiers.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8lP4HfO5X
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"Fire!" The man thundered at the sleepy soldier, I noticed he had the insignia of a sergeant.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeYTrJBsKZr
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If the Artillery fire had been nearly deafening before, then the sound of 25,000 Howizers in a large line firing in unison must have been eardrum shattering.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL96iHMz40N
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As the battle raged on, the deafening roar of Howizers echoed across the battlefield, their thunderous blasts reverberating through the air like the tolling of a funeral bell. From their positions along the city walls, the massive artillery pieces belched forth fire and smoke, sending deadly payloads hurtling towards the enemy ranks with worrying accuracy.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQpMoix60L
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With each thunderous report, the ground shook beneath the feet of both friend and foe alike, the concussive force of the explosions sending shockwaves rippling through the earth. The air was thick with the acrid scent of gunpowder, mingling with the coppery tang of blood and the bitter stench of smoke.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgWnHSOfxSK
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Amidst the chaos and confusion of battle, the Howizers served as a constant reminder of the devastating power of war. Each shell that arced through the sky brought with it death and destruction, tearing through flesh and bone with merciless efficiency.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT8zE2wZ3hs
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But for the defenders of Worcester, the Howizers were a lifeline, a last line of defence against the relentless tide of enemy forces. With each well-aimed shot, they sought to stem the tide of the enemy advance, buying precious moments of respite for their beleaguered comrades.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2avFDMhUkS
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And so the Howizers thundered on, their fiery salvoes lighting up our walls as they unleashed hell upon the enemy below. I took unflinching at the side of Grand-General Steelraine watching the battle from the walls.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDTpjyzUhb
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As long as the Howizers continued to fire, there was hope. And amidst the chaos and carnage of war, hope was the one thing that could a leader could never afford to lose. Hope meant morale and men do not fight without morale.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwxBIMFYLN
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The enemy began to retreat, the Grand Narcissian Army forces did not pursue. They began to pour into Worcester. The distant thunder of retreating footsteps echoed ominously.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7hy9F0OqC
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When it was only really the rear guard left, a force broke off of the retreating main body and moved back towards us with frightening speed. They were on the rear guard within moments.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj2U6FoI06q
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I moved down to the gate to be greeted with the sight of Lord Sergeant-Major Aurora dragging the body of Grand-General Pride. His white uniform was dyed red with blood178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVE9BHCErT
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My heart hammered against my ribs as I watched the harrowing scene unfold before me. The air crackled with the metallic tang of blood and the acrid scent of smoke, mingled with the haunting cries of the fallen. Every fibre of my being screamed for action, yet I remained rooted in place, powerless to alter the course of fate.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡscjEr2mD7k
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Aurora's voice pierced through the din of battle, a clarion call in the midst of chaos. "Close the gates, Worce!" he bellowed, his words a command laced with desperation. With a heavy heart, I obeyed, the grinding of stone against stone a grim harbinger of our impending doom.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtwraplRfw
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A small force outside had refused to move inside. I realised that they must have been the Lord Sergeant-Major's.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5SjqRsbtj
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As the gates sealed shut, I turned my gaze back to the fray, witnessing Aurora's final stand against the relentless tide of the enemy. His war scythe danced with deadly grace, cleaving through flesh and bone with merciless precision. Yet even the mightiest of warriors can only defy fate for so long, and soon Aurora found himself overwhelmed by the sheer weight of numbers arrayed against him.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcXZBEfZwAC
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In his final moments, amidst the chaos and carnage, Aurora's eyes met mine, a silent exchange of understanding passing between us. With a determined resolve, he pulled the pin from a grenade, a smirk appeared on the veteran soldiers face as he embraced his destiny. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR3Qz42Besi
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And then the grenade detonated. Lord Sergeant-Major Erik Aurora and all the enemy soldiers around him were obliterated by the bundle of grenades doing off all at once. One of the longest serving non-commissioned officers of the Grand Narcissian Army was gone in an instant.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSLTQH9Q0DD
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Grand-General Pride's attack had cost his own life in addition to 90,000 other men's. The death toll on the Narcissian side now numbered an estimated 179,000 men that had been wounded or killed in the Defence of Worcester. The Grand Narcissian Army could call on an additional 500,000 part-time reservists and men that had military training to bolster its ranks. The Narcissian population was estimated at 16 million - the Empyrean regions were huge, hence why most are split into subregions, official or not. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xMgnsqga6
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The names of the fallen that i recognised included Grand Warlord Nimbus of the 26th Artillery Corps. War Brigadiers Caesar, Orion, Icarus of the 2nd Corps, 4th Corps, and 39th Rifle Brigade. Captain-Commanders Jarl and Oak of the 340th and 341st companies, and Ego Lieutenant Dawnstar.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTS7ZEIUTLn
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Grand-General Valour informed me that Grand-General Maxim of the 3rd Assault Army Group had committed suicide. Maxim was renowned for being strange, frequently being reported conversing with people that aren't there, abruptly breaking out into laughter, and generally being a bit weird. The consensus among Ego Lieutenants and non-commissioned officers was that Maxim hear voices in his mind constantly, anyone above that was told that it was true and that he had a condition that wasn't serious. I was told that that he did indeed have a condition - Schizophrenia - and that it was serious, evidently the voices has driven him to kill himself, a shame, but I had never met the man.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZeFNV0wlxK
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Valourgavee me a letter from Marshal of the Grand Army Scipio - something that could only mean one thing, I was being promoted.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡurgmx4KRFg
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It read178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0a5el26nQ
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Dear Lieutenant General Charles A. Worce,178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaquTLAYVyE
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The fate of Grand-General Pride has come to my attention. Thou may be aware that Grand-General Maxim committed suicide because of his Schizophrenia. This means that 1 million men do not have an overarching superior. This is unacceptable. Thou shalt be made a Grand-General and given command of the 1st Infantry and 3rd Assault Army Groups owing to the emergency situation, thou shalt stay in command for the remainder of the war.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF26FunMtNB
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If this letter had reached thou, I am already in Worcester. I await thy presence at the administration building in the office of High-Exarch Regimè of Worcestershire.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiadoDvSXG
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Ad Astra Per Aspera!178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFlu7B9B9q
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Resiak Zu Scipio, Marshal of His Eminence's Grand Narcissian Army178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI05po6ngNX
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"What doth it say, Worce?" Valour asked me.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjjwapr11Cw
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"I am to be made Grand-General of the 1st Infantry and 3rd Assault Army Groups."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQVK4av334
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"Thou needs to go to the Administration Complex, I presume?"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNQT7NFoGrZ
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"Indeed."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuI5J5V0hI
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Valour took me there. I entered the office of High-Exarch Regimè of Worcestershire.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLhqUzcTMB8
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Marshal Scipio stood behind the large mahogany desk. This was one of the few rooms that was not adorned with maps and tactical diagrams, a reminder of the ongoing war effort.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzQ4AmQpum
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I saluted him. "At ease, Grand-General," Scipio said with a nod of approval. "I've heard impressive things about thou."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcPLNK8tgoA
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"Thank thou, Marshal," I asked without revealing sense of pride swelling within, "I amhonouredd by thy confidence."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hbIF902p0
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Scipio continued, "Congratulations on thy promotion to Grand-General." He handed me a uniform befitting my new rank, along with the baton and sabre signifying my high position. "Wear it with pride, Worce. After all, thou art in command of half the army now."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwUnIlbYVL
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I accept the baton and uniform. The former was identified to the one that I had often seen the late Grand-General Pride waving about. The uniform was white and gold - not to mention highly decorated - and it bore the insignia of a laurel wreath enveloping a pair of crossed batons surmounted by a crown. The sabre was identical to the one I had received from Grand Warlord Egoni - something that seemed ages ago - except that it was gold rather than silver.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQD8KD307P
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Scipio then asked if I had any questions. I nodde. Theree were many.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOHg1GyofHs
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"If i am to command the Assault forces, i aught to know where they art. Art thou aware of the 3rd Assault Army Groups whereabouts?178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡstOnwKVrKj
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Scipio sighed, a look of frustration crossing his features. "They art stationed at Graina Maria, but they should reach Valeshire soon."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyTJMU1ToCR
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"Valerium?" I was confused as too way the Assault forces were there and not here.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjVvq6Fn0IL
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"Grand-General Maxim was ordered to stay away until a proper attack could be mounted."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ85dFWCBtoZ
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I nodded, that made sense, "And what of Grand-General Maxim's suicide? Could it have been prevented?" he asked, his tone grave.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyZGKMGmzo
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Scipio's expression softened. "Maxim was battling severe schizophrenia. Despite our best efforts, we couldn't prevent the tragic outcome. It's a loss that weighs heavily on all of us."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TT4xUBn2D
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I never knew Max. Thehe loss was cushioned by my newly bestowed 1 million strong command.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9HpLcH7bE
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"And what have thou been doing all this time, Marshal?" Worce inquired, curiosity piqued.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMiVBeqocQ
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Scipio chuckled lightly. "Ah, well, you see, I have my ways," he replied cryptically, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Let's just say I've been busy orchestrating some strategimanoeuvresrs behind the scenes."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnA5ezuhMB
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I raised an eyebrow at this, the Marshal had probably sat at a large mahogany desk much like the one in front of me and ordered Grand-Generals to move here and there. Thpositionon was largely ceremonial.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvlyCcUnQJA
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"What's the situation in other regions?" Worce asked, shifting the conversation to broader concerns.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3VNIxQJLKR
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Scipio's expression turned into a smirk, evidently pleased in that regard, "Dissent in the Estrin Dominion is being violently suppressed by Khaj Lefu, on the orders of Khagan Zultan," he explained. "As for other regions, I'm afraid I don't have much information at the moment. Our focus has been on the defence of Worcester. The developments in the East are satisfactory to me - if the Khagan is uprooted by a coup d'état or a revolt it will pull one of our most dangerous adversaries out of the war."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoofdgtRu6x
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"What of Cerulea?"178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsoLwg3ZHrR
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"The Theocratic Confederacy of Cerulea has not done much of anything, it has the Conclave of Viziers stumped, they art probably going to attack with the rest of the Coalition in some sort of surprise attack, Valerium would make a good spot to invade to crack Worcestershire open, hence why the Assault Army Group is there.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjmL57RnQ0L
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"Art the Valkyries real?" I asked, his curiosity getting the better of me, "No one appears to have seen any.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsobIRu89LJ
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It was the marshals turn to nod, "Yes, they art very real. The elite of the elite. There art two Corps of them, The rest of the 3rd Assault Army Group is made up of two Corps of Sappers- who can perform a variety of functions such as breaching fortifications, demolitions, bridge-building, laying or clearing minefields, preparing field defenses, and road and airship bay construction and repair - and four Corps of Jägers, a heavier type of Infantry.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqKFv6FgcrL
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"And what about the Grand Narcissian Fleet?" I pressed, eager for information on our aerial friends and saviours.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSyp8knhAWV
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Scipio's expression hardened. "They're nearly at Worcester, and they'll break the siege tomorrow. We must be prepared for a fierce naval battle."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRzyWHGNxtM
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"And finally, Marshal, what advantages do we have?" I asked, seeking reassurance amidst the looming conflict.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDJ9oerxj6
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Scipio smiled confidently. "We have discipline, logistics, and the firepower," he replied. "We just need to use it properly."178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxxcchg41E4
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Day IV:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9CSsPOAgfY
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Everyone got a shock at how early the Grand Narcissian Fleet arriv. Itit was 0600! 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7usCgH3zYh
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Better early than late however, the sky was filled airships.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlj3xP4xtfe
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His Eminence's Grand Narcissian Fleet looked spectacular, casting long shadows over the battlefield, the unmistakable roar of engines filling the sky. My heart quickened as I scanned the sky, anticipation building up to a powerful climax. Then, like avenging Valkyries descending from the heavens in myths older than Narciss, the airships appeared on the horizon.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7fuajfTEtx
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Their sleek forms glinted in the light of the rising sun, each vessel a formidable presence in the sky. The GNF had arrived, and with it, a surge delight swept through the defenders of Worcester .178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZj5cfCfdn
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But there was little time for celebration. As the airships closed in on their targets, the sound of gunfire erupted below. The Coalition forces, caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the airships, scrambled to mount defencese. But it was too late.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlTFyMxEJeA
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The airships unleashed a barrage of firepower, raining down destruction on the enemy ranks below. Explosions lit up the wals as shells detonated on impact, sending plumes of smoke and debris into the air. The ground shook beneath my feet as the full force of the aerial assault rocked the battlefield. Say one thing about the GNF, say that they were the friend of thinfantrymanan.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLrFL6vNcg3
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In the chaos that followed, the Coalition forces faltered, their lines crumbling under the relentless assault. Panic spread through their ranks as soldiers scrambled to retreat, desperate to escape the wrath of the advancing airships.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXT0rICAZvF
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With each passing moment, the tide of battle turned ifavouror of the defending forces. The arrival of the airships had brought renewed hope and firepower. The enemy forces were pursued until they reached the border with the Dominion, they keep running.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqdIMATXrsL
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We had successfully defended the capital. I had risen even higher. The motto of the Earldom makes perfect sense to me now.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXEXYDnFFMe
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"Ad Astra Per Aspera..." I whispered to myself.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDYu07at7Z
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Chapter Five - Battle of the Golden Bay:178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc8arbmNIAx
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The Lance Corporal appeared to be the embodiment of concentration as he pored over what he had written so far. There was the soft rustling sound of the page as he placed the notebook down on the coffee table as delicately as one might handle live ordnance. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5i5kbTRQhp
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“After the conclusion of the Assault on Worcester, the Valkyries, in addition to the rest of the assault forces, became involved for the remainder of the Coalition War. Everyone knows that.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdW1oRK917
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Worce thought for a moment. The room itself seemed to listen intently out of respect for the famous veteran when he finally spoke. “Indeed, they did become involved. They joined up with my forces as we marched towards the Bay of Gold to defend one of the Earldom’s weakest points. If the Coalition was to reach there – and I predicted they would try correctly -  they could have easily crippled our ability to fight by destroying the food supply for the entire region and effectively cutting Narciss in half.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIknYpXRuKd
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“Art the Jewelled Peaks not near the Bay of Gold? There is an airbase there. Why defend there instead of starting an invasion of our own?” Harvester had the look of puzzlement that could only belong to the rank and file plastered all over his features. Worce sighed at this and drank some tea – ironically, the expensive kind from villages in Valerium such as Esto – before responding. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcN5DEiIsuS
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“Thee art like the rest of thy generation: quite impatient. The Aquilorian Fleet would have sent us scurrying away if we attacked the border with the Dominion without the support of the GNF. The airbase was relatively new and housed Grand Wing A back then , as it does today. But the airships would not be able to prevent a combined ground-air invasion alone.”178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rGVifcpDf
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Harvester slumped into his chair at that, evidently not having thought about it. “So the forces went to the Bay of Gold...then what? All I know is that they were divided at some point.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9P28I5bcaX
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“Indeed they were. I realised that the Ceruleans would be unexpected as they had done nothing up to this point. I anticipated that the Coalition would attack here soon, as they thought it undefended according to reports from spies. The Dragoons would be a dangerous force to fight on the beaches directly, especially if a fleet was bombarding us from above. I adopted unorthodox tactics to deal with this possibility: I informed the officers the 1st Infantry and 3rd Assault Army Groups would be separated into the Sixteen Corps that made it up and divided between nearby Settlements, where they would encircle and destroy the enemy should there be an attack." 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxjizbvVF9
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Harvester seemed to understand the utility of this, but seemed to be struggling internally to work out where everything would be sent, “Where were they all sent?” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmQSqALNvwm
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Worce was evidently still both Grand-General and High-Exarch of Worcestershire in his heart as evidenced by the fact that his response was to pull pen and paper from seemingly nowhere before beginning to create a rough copy of the Order of Battle. He jabbed the pen at the paper as he explained what was sent to the villages with careful precision. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgj52F7h6yQ
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“Corru Née got the 1st and 2nd Infantry, the 17th and 18th Assault Corps, and the 58th Valkyrie Division. The 3rd and 4th Infantry, in addition to the 19th paired with the 21st Assault Corps joined by the 59th Valkyrie Division, were sent to Nordoste. Meanwhile, Glänzeno was garrisoned by the 5th and 6th Infantry plus the 22nd Assault Corps and the 60th Valkyrie Division. Lastly, the 7th and 8th Infantry combined with the entire 23rd Valkyrie Corps (Made up of the 70th, 71st, and 72nd Valkyrie Divisions) went with me to Esto, where I took direct command.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw90r4t9x35
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Harvester noticed but tried to ignore just how much the pen shook in the elderly man’s grasp. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjvo3XzXk7
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“What of the GNA Craft?” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHBJ4cVNXQ
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“As we were brought to the area by airship, the naval officers were still around. I managed to get a hold of High-Commander Azure of the Battlecruiser, GNA Caeli, to warn the Jewelled Peaks Base to keep their airships aloft on the other side of the mountain in case of an attack. I also asked that they keep a small craft like an Escort Destroyer nearby so that we could signal for support.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPsnNRYqv2L
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“What did he say?” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtrTlFyfaE
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“Nothing. He saluted me and went off with the last airships soon after. One of my Spotters sighted the Escort Destroyer not long after...” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcjkqu5Dc31
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Lance Corporal Harvester seemed to take this in. “I’ve never seen a Valkyrie. What were they like?” he asked curiously.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1kjLWeIfwn
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“They wear midnight black uniforms. The officers got gold highlights. They unnerved the Jägers and Support Jägers of the assault forces and flat-out terrified the regular infantry. The officers weren’t much better. The way they were structured was the same. All one hundred and twenty thousand of them seemed to be like the late Lord Sergeant-Major Aurora. They moved with such precision and ruthlessness that it was as if they were a single entity, a shadow that swept across the battlefield, leaving nothing but destruction in their wake.” 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDTSIt0vu0u
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Harvester nodded slowly, absorbing Worce’s words. The room fell silent again.178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigQPVXE3hy
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“So...what happened at the Bay of Gold, sir?” asked the Lance Corporal, who was picking up his pen. 178Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs5xiHKh8z0
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“Well” began Worce.8964 copyright protection174ＰＥＮＡＮＡvQeDKyUwYV 維尼

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