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49 YBP - Day I:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFnU7k99xJ
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFQ7VHqjDi
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡblA5LbWyo9
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In practice, the Grand-Generals are more powerful than the Marshal - who is basically a figurehead.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPqgytiUAi
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdedsNeIoKl
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyI7hyLP4o
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8K2XsgqvE2
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGTYiPoYbFc
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ISdqY2aty
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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?"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSCCRv4bD2
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnjOVYfEIS
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6RG5RVLiP
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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!"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6FMqtW782K
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHspKbUu4b0
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXuzq6syovV
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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)21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡONUzYpd8NJ
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Valour has shown me the response that he had gotten from Aeroadmiral Empyr.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxM52WN5tw
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Dear Grand-General Valour,21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsd7Z8xjat
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeNO0YEhfAV
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Battlecruisers:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDevU1WdcY
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• GNA Callisto 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEO6gIsD2la
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Heavy Frigates:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3ea8rp1iJ
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Frigates:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2USxnTOyHh
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Destroyers:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhvvv9getAn
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUkiNetG2u
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Ad Astra Per Aspera! 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy9mcNenwMK
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Empyr, Aeroadmiral of the Grand Fleet21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkJG0EMgmOc
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJ0OVhQudM
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCYqZhlWR8
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2m5WXKVKb1
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTrZxGi1E6c
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Day II:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFWeHn9paR
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97OAl8PznQ
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SXKLgcxVr
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVEUynUTzA
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjLhFzIvUHw
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ay7P9ajuw
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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?"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLmSHiD19V
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnpyMrSnFx
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvONbuUi8BQ
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl1JMcAWiOS
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxi0UPtLmGM
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROj8TfEHk1
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiMExg9VrQs
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnNIyqudUe6
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa7iOvNUO03
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMdmCtMcY2Q
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNr0ayaZFxD
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcGVTXiIKUG
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtD202cr7J
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIoRefISG7
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQXd5jqZZ9
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5XJorSAPmX
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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"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdWU0PXlHk
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmP2wQt71Gt
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5g2GBjHNmM
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWAxrOFRwF
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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? 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDPjO3O6H5
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The High-Exarch of Luxequinox interestingly lacks a ceremonial weapon. No one seems to know why. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVVUhtoU8K
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I approached Grand-General Pride just after noon. Everyone was tired by this point.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4aabROH62
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjUM7osAOZz
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaGhDdfw9PI
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡji5NmSv1k4
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqUItzQDh4m
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1YSPmrrABR
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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!"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7nmfkFwrY
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"Yes sir."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl6IONabldO
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"We just need to last a few more days."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnxZaeuLIB
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"And so we shalt, Grand-General."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4qWiveioV
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUO50wDxlhT
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Day III:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡno0m9UJRiZ
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We were awoken by bugle calls at dawn. That could never have been a good sign.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡADWIUGwT6y
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgs40YZE0xF
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ac8Xutm8I
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ATgFCdc7e
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"How many Coalition men are not involved in this attack?" I asked.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJCb3fKKuV
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3b5exWNiud
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"We can probably help with what men are left and the Howizers, Sir."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZQ2eUHBIr
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnMRp04Klk2
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"I see."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHn0xDiVMx
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"Move!"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBRPG1NGMpW
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNQunoVGVg
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"What are our orders, Grand-General Stee-" Began one of the soldiers.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0hpLRYWbYB
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"Fire!" The man thundered at the sleepy soldier, I noticed he had the insignia of a sergeant.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGgVyfvjmXF
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RW7jv4qFq
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfrxvuumSM6
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbCmSmljtDG
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNmV63I24z1
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5t20SDUXaN
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX717Po27km
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4jFuVX5Fbx
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95d4qlDrcv
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8sddAqFBb
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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 blood21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU5gus7WIN4
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GqSkBI8eJ
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC5a4C9GYtA
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFjdZMPPjUL
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs4XGbA7jyO
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf5BxPhuWrX
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoEoph900R
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqwrN1wVlRp
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBOwK5zxhv
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlt0gXnpuKY
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCwhuIZ7NG8
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It read21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCSNChV8Pvx
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Dear Lieutenant General Charles A. Worce,21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaVZPSbjSdo
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAQ0CsIHPW
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFWXF8pM9j
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Ad Astra Per Aspera!21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3a7agRDNwG
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Resiak Zu Scipio, Marshal of His Eminence's Grand Narcissian Army21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSDuzwXnB6
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"What doth it say, Worce?" Valour asked me.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNb37RChn4O
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"I am to be made Grand-General of the 1st Infantry and 3rd Assault Army Groups."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRfUXNQqm3K
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"Thou needs to go to the Administration Complex, I presume?"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7B1X6tFy0e
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"Indeed."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCCXNSYRXH
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Valour took me there. I entered the office of High-Exarch Regimè of Worcestershire.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29oU98grC1
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4jwpuQ6SSK
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrlmUjp1vvI
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"Thank thou, Marshal," I asked without revealing sense of pride swelling within, "I amhonouredd by thy confidence."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWG1xsD6avC
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYhJe76MA7
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBFQJmogzM0
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Scipio then asked if I had any questions. I nodde. Theree were many.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRv8MAfrLi
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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?21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZiES9i33We
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBjXMKo9ap
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"Valerium?" I was confused as too way the Assault forces were there and not here.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMpbCbQUWYQ
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"Grand-General Maxim was ordered to stay away until a proper attack could be mounted."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1NNsFbuKu
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDD1ad8BU1I
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfhtqCPX5FJ
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I never knew Max. Thehe loss was cushioned by my newly bestowed 1 million strong command.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4FXozLOBU
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"And what have thou been doing all this time, Marshal?" Worce inquired, curiosity piqued.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOCGFsq0lyk
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreWbNLzxwr
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbhI2diIPyV
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"What's the situation in other regions?" Worce asked, shifting the conversation to broader concerns.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsSfNVzrZ3O
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiEvK7HjiOK
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"What of Cerulea?"21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6cHSY5lLR
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP75JvcwZGz
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"Art the Valkyries real?" I asked, his curiosity getting the better of me, "No one appears to have seen any.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH4Wvel2xpb
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTDC8Rw3lcs
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"And what about the Grand Narcissian Fleet?" I pressed, eager for information on our aerial friends and saviours.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRfbgbL6ySL
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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."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL40Y9gRbRo
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"And finally, Marshal, what advantages do we have?" I asked, seeking reassurance amidst the looming conflict.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGrg6qVhl9
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Scipio smiled confidently. "We have discipline, logistics, and the firepower," he replied. "We just need to use it properly."21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0K5SFEzKF
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Day IV:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcq6UB3hPZJ
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Everyone got a shock at how early the Grand Narcissian Fleet arriv. Itit was 0600! 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyUvK3j9Xdb
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Better early than late however, the sky was filled airships.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxSModdbaH
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoq9yEPYg9K
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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 .21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZcUwFSwnk
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDzPDQgAuiB
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFiXlW4woql
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV1sAfKwL7w
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wSNUf3FnJ
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcaBB2uI2Z6
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"Ad Astra Per Aspera..." I whispered to myself.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡztrIdyc04Q
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Chapter Five - Battle of the Golden Bay:21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9414W44579
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqR0zJH593a
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAm073unwIm
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSrkQQ9Q6r
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfxkjTmSj1
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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.”21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFqihZJnbi2
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMo2Lci8mVH
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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." 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa4n1mZTw2R
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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?” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIU55dfN90K
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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. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbDnhkuliXs
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnP8g1Rsy8S
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Harvester noticed but tried to ignore just how much the pen shook in the elderly man’s grasp. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNn7VBNTd89
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“What of the GNA Craft?” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqAjOVP7Bd
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvH7LqRGiyf
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“What did he say?” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqJrVTY9L08
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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...” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyY3KQN9Ri
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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.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO9nC0oKyj1
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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.” 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxn0f5bZHAS
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Harvester nodded slowly, absorbing Worce’s words. The room fell silent again.21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkp7w6bubxd
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“So...what happened at the Bay of Gold, sir?” asked the Lance Corporal, who was picking up his pen. 21Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGp8Bmylb7f
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“Well” began Worce.8964 copyright protection17ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkFec5JN62 維尼

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