Chapter 864 - This Game Is Too Realistic

Chapter 864: The Wolf, the Snake, and the Dog In the Dominion Office. Sitting at his desk, Absec read through the entire letter before throwing it down angrily. "This crafty fox!" The letter was penned by Sharukh, the Horse King who had once joined him in an orchestrated performance at the royal palace. Since the founding of Boro Kingdom was a collaborative effort by four kings, including the Horse King, two others—the Tiger King and the Leopard King—also held esteemed titles. Even those who wisely changed allegiances were granted committee positions. Yet, of the three great committee members, not a single one proved reliable. Two had already absconded before any conflicts arose, while the remaining one had sent his family to Kinjal Port and relocated to near the airport. Still unsatisfied, Absec muttered indignantly once more. "All for the greater good, he says! Yet, it's clear as day he’s building a bridge only for his own escape." The idea that the Legion would head south at this moment was ludicrous! Anyone with half a brain could see that their next target was Niuzhou—specifically, its capital, Tiandu! The South Legion was not a unified front; its commanders often competed among themselves. From the battle reports at the front, Ordelle, the ten-thousand-strong commander of the South Legion's northern flank, was already advancing towards Gouzhou from Surak County, in a race against time to claim victory. Why was it that on Absec's side, such devious schemers surrounded him? Shaking his head wearily, Absec sighed long and deep. He was resigned to playing the role of the tough man until the end. After all, who was he to judge? He was, in essence, a speculator himself. Perhaps the only truly 'honest man' in the Heavenly King Army was the late, lamented Janusz. The guards standing nearby exchanged puzzled glances. Unaware of the source of their leader's ire, they dared not ask further. Just then, another subordinate entered, saluted, and reported. "Sir, the Education Commissioner wishes to schedule a meeting with you. He wants to discuss matters regarding public education." Absec, troubled by more pressing issues, waved dismissively. "No, I'm not interested! The budget's already approved; he can handle it. Doesn't he know what time it is? The Legion is about to strike Tiandu, and I have no time for trivialities!" His subordinate hesitated, cautiously lowering his head. "But... he wants to discuss the budget." The mention of the budget annoyed Absec further. "Tell him that's it. He's lucky I haven't slashed it. Take it or leave it." These intellectuals lacked foresight. His infantry couldn't even gather enough uniforms, yet there were complaints about inadequate desks and books. Did they not realize that if he approved their budget, how would his soldiers feel? No desks? No books? Then let them sit on the floor to learn! Write on the ground if they must! He continued this internal monologue but dared not voice it to the Education Commissioner. Those intellectuals were sharp-tongued; he would struggle to best them in a verbal spar. The subordinate respectfully nodded and left quickly. "Yes, sir..." Soon, footsteps echoed outside once more. On the verge of an outburst, Absec noticed the representatives of the Alliance entering and swiftly changed demeanor to one of warmth and congeniality. "What brings you two here?" The Far-Seeing Hawk wasted no time on pleasantries. "This is about reinforcements... Our Death Corps has arrived at Kinjal Port, totaling over ten thousand when accounting for subsequent reinforcements. Their operations will primarily focus on Niuzhou's region, executing defensive counterattacks. They request a few officers from your side to assist them." Overwhelmed with delight, Absec promptly responded. "Consider it done! I'll assign a commander to assist you right away." The Far-Seeing Hawk continued. "No need for such high-ranking officers. It's best to have first or second-line officers familiar with the terrain and frontline conditions. We'll impart some guerrilla warfare tactics... so, gather about a hundred or so." Considering Boro Kingdom’s current military strength, relying solely on entrenched warfare to hold the opponent was nearly impossible. Guerrilla tactics must be employed. After deliberations on the forum, the commanders were convinced to seek advice from Brother Edge. Having a mentor beats learning through fatal trial. Absec promptly agreed. "No problem! We have plenty of officers pulled from the frontlines! I'll hand them over to you straight away!" Though he readily agreed, he harbored ulterior motives. Casualties in guerrilla warfare were inevitable, so he couldn't risk his own loyal troops. Most officers pulled from the front lines were former subordinates of Udono. Since these individuals lost Lion City, let them atone for their failures. The Far-Seeing Hawk paid little mind to the origins of the officers, nor to Absec’s hidden intentions. From the Alliance’s perspective, those details were irrelevant. Frontline experience was the only requirement. Compared to Janusz, who manipulated and deceived, Absec's cooperative attitude was commendably satisfactory. The forum members wanted to assist, and even the Far-Seeing Hawk himself felt compelled to lend a hand. If Boro Kingdom could stabilize, 4 million square kilometers of wasteland would no longer concern them. Though impoverished, without technology or culture, Boro Kingdom had the potential to drive the wasteland era towards a new era. Much like the survivors of the South Sea Alliance. "What upset you so much earlier?" the Far-Seeing Hawk inquired. “Ah! Just poverty playing tricks, making us a laughing stock.” Absec sighed deeply, wearing a long face, continuing his lament. "The funds Seer Camel left are limited. We've resorted to IOUs for clothing soldiers. We must purchase arms, ammunition, vehicles for logistics... then the Agriculture Commissioner came begging for funds to buy tractors and fertilizers, and the Industry Commissioner wants to procure furnaces and kilns. I can’t refuse them, right? Yet, now the Education Commissioner comes saying we lack textbooks... What am I to do? I could print money, but you won't accept that, forcing me to send him off.” The Eagle refrained from engaging further once monetary woes were mentioned. His financial resources were insufficient to fill Absec's pit. The Alliance was even less capable. Their resources weren't even comparable; maybe Ideal City could assist. The Old Stick interjected with a cough. "One thing at a time, it’s not that we don’t recognize your currency, but Kinjal Port Bank doesn’t. It’s their legal right. We can’t compel them. Besides, couldn’t you reduce the number of concubines?" Absec chuckled bitterly, shaking his head. "Ha, how much does it cost to have a few more wives? Moreover, that’s not state money. Saving or not saving wouldn’t bolster state coffers; that’s separation of concerns. And even if I settle for fewer, can I expect the same from those under my command?" Unlike Janusz, Absec wasn’t driven by impulse, leading to rumors within the army about his rumored impotence, supposedly a result of battlefield injuries. Hearing these whispers nearly drove him mad with anger, wanting to dispatch the Internal Affairs Sect to arrest the instigator. Of course, acting on such whims was unrealistic; he couldn’t execute entire families for a slanderous remark. For if he did, his high position would subsequently be reduced to nothing but a title with no subjects. However, the suggestion from the Alliance’s brother sparked an idea within Absec. He pondered implementing a tax on second marriages. For third and fourth wives, the taxes would escalate—this might accrue considerable revenue! Those wealthy enough for multiple spouses were not typical soldiers but the old aristocracy holding significant estates. One day, when they can no longer afford to marry multiple wives, he'd issue a decree to abolish the practice entirely, anticipating far less resistance to reform. "Keep it to yourself," the Far-Seeing Hawk admonished, shooting a glare at Old Stick, who sheepishly closed his mouth. With Old Stick silent, the Eagle turned back to Absec, this time speaking in a gentler tone. "Rome wasn't built in a day. Once you drive the South Legion out, you'll have ample time to develop. Take Rasheen, for example. He seized the opportunity post-civil war in the southern seas, and the Mammoth Kingdom's economy took off overnight. We're currently constructing a space elevator, and you have similar opportunities ahead." Perhaps spending time with Guang had rubbed off on him; unknowingly, he too had begun painting grand visions. Nevertheless, Absec seemed to savor it, nodding eagerly with a satisfied expression. "I am truly enlightened! I will surely remember your advice!" Seeing Absec's compliant demeanor, the Eagle waved a hand with a smile. "You flatter me." Since he wasn't in charge, praise was trivial to him, so he saw no need for modesty. Now that the main topics were covered, the Eagle hurriedly left with Old Stick, wary that Absec might ask for funds. His worry was unnecessary. After all this time together, Absec knew well enough that the Eagle didn't have money to offer, so he hadn't planned to ask for any. He merely had a habit of lamenting poverty to distinguish himself from the naive and wealthy Wutu. With the Alliance representatives gone, Absec reverted to his usual proud expression as if he owned the place. Then, another knock came at the door. The subordinate from before entered again. Absec was visibly annoyed. "If this is about the Education Commissioner, don’t bother me. The Alliance's reps just left; tell him to ask them." The subordinate spoke quietly. "But... Mr. Kabaha is already at the door." Absec waved dismissively. "Not seeing him." As the subordinate hesitated to leave, Absec irritably asked. "What else is there?" The young officer quickly nodded. "Also, the chairman of the Family Association seeks an audience." The Family Association... Absec frowned, recalling that the man's name was Zahed. It was an interesting coincidence. Both his old Heavenly King Army unit and the Family Association originated from Xifan Port; they were practically alumni. However, the Family Association wasn't as fortunate, having clashed with a formidable force, their rebellion crushed, and over 1,000 people reportedly executed. This incident had stirred sympathy in the Kinjal Port's newspaper, "Survivor Daily," which dedicated coverage to their plight and profiling their leader. In that report, Zahed had declared himself an admirer of Absec, inspired by reformists to leave Dawn City and return home to aid suffering survivors. Sadly, he lamented, his lack of skill had cost his followers dearly. Zahed had an impressive gift for simultaneously humbling himself while lauding Absec, wearing failure as a badge while deferring success to the victor. This gesture drew Absec's attention... suggesting Zahed was a savvy operator, perhaps just like himself. To display both openness and acceptance, and ingratiate himself with the people of Kinjal Port, Absec had initially offered an audience, meeting Zahed shortly after Rasheen of the Mammoth Kingdom. That meeting was purely ceremonial. Afterward, Absec confirmed his suspicion: Zahed was indeed a kindred spirit—an adept speculator. Individuals like Zahed revered no one, held no beliefs, and distrusted even their own words, let alone worship someone else. He knew because he was the same way, surrounded by similar types. The supposed admiration was merely empty flattery. Absec loathed such individuals. It was seldom foes or dissenters who irked people most, but those who were similar yet fundamentally different. Much like humans instinctively despise their clones. Upon realizing this, Absec lost all interest in Zahed and moved on, merely advising Internal Affairs to monitor him. He could ignore those who criticized him. Many couldn't even insult effectively, inadvertently revealing their ignorance. But Zahed was harder to disregard. Despite being insignificant, neither he nor his Family Association were powerful enough to constitute any real threat. He wouldn’t demean himself by dealing with such minor figures, as that would only fuel the gossip among intellectuals. In contrast, he found the educated minor aristocrats worthy of his attention. "What does he want?" A hint of disdain flickered in Absec's eyes. The subordinate answered truthfully. "He wishes to enlist in the military." Absec paused, then burst into laughter. "That scrawny guy wants to join the army? Tell him to try enlisting and see if he can pass the fitness exam first!" "Yes, sir." The subordinate prepared to leave, but Absec, recalling the Education Commissioner at the door, stopped him. "Wait." The subordinate turned back, respectful. "Is there anything else, sir?" Absec pondered, then changed his approach. "I've changed my mind. Let him in." Those intellectuals... the educated minor nobles, they were becoming too bold. They waved the flag of equality, discarding their valueless baron and viscount titles, acting as if they were Alliance's favored children. They needed a reminder of whose land they walked. Especially Kabaha, who forgot who granted him the title of Education Commissioner. If he became too irksome, Absec wouldn't hesitate to replace him with a centurion. He chose to entertain even a minor request rather than meet Kabaha, signaling his message. The subordinate was momentarily surprised but didn't question the directive, saluting obediently before leaving. Meanwhile, in another part of the Dominion's lounge, an elderly man, visibly agitated, sat on a sofa, his beard trembling with anger. This was Kabaha, a former vassal of the fallen Xilane Empire, renowned for his musical and artistic talents, favored by Prince Dilip, and made head of the Royal Printing House. Caught and imprisoned during the Heavenly King's upheaval, he was released when reformist officers seized power. During imprisonment, he embraced Alliance ideologies, understood the empire's decline, and upon release, joined the reformist cause, eventually becoming the Education Commissioner after some time in propaganda work. Unlike others aiming only for ascension, the 50 or 60-something genuinely sought to help the Boro Province's survivors so his descendants wouldn't suffer. He saw education as an opportunity. Mr. Mouse, who penned "Red Earth," founded a university in Mammoth City, allowing Boro's youth access to genuine learning without venturing to Dawn City. Kabaha aspired to create an even larger university in Tian Du, but those who once supported him now wavered when funds were needed. "That Absec is truly unreliable! Going back on his word!" Kabaha vented, nearly spitting in frustration. Beside him sat a young man with a warm smile, placing a reassuring hand on his. "Sir, that’s not entirely fair," he consoled. "Commander Absec is a hero in his own right. You excel in education, he in warfare. Both are pillars of Boro. Criticism only divides our strengths." "A hero, you say! If he’s a hero, then any fool could speak for bears," Kabaha muttered, eager to vent, "I’m well along in years and have nothing to lose. I won’t indulge his antics!" Zahed chuckled softly. "Funny you say that; when I was with the Alliance, I did meet a talking bear." "Well, you've been to the Alliance, you're well-versed! Why don't you judge this for me?" Hearing the young man mention his visit to the Alliance, Kabaha seemed more spirited, turning to him to vent his frustrations. "He always complains about being broke, yet look at the abundance of desks and chairs in the Dominion Office! Are those free? And those officers, if they curtailed their extravagance and ceased marrying so many concubines, we wouldn't be struggling to piece together desks for the children!" "That's certainly an issue," sighed Zahed, his brow furrowing with shared concern. "We are indeed impoverished; we ought to live more frugally." His words resonated with the old man. Kabaha's face lit with fervor. He slapped his hand into his palm, his beard trembling with agitation. "That's exactly the point! Avoiding me won't solve anything, will it?" Zahed regarded him earnestly, his expression full of sincerity. "How short is your budget? I have a modest income myself; let me see what I can spare to help." Kabaha paused, then sighed heavily. "I appreciate the gesture, but keep your salary for yourself... This is beyond our means." He then took on a more serious tone, as if imparting wisdom. "You young people should focus on your studies instead of penny-pinching over this and that. Be generous with expenses when necessary. We old folks are different; we're atoning for past mistakes. I need to complete my work to find peace. You are the future of Boro." Establishing schools wasn't a one-off task but a persistent expense. Kabaha knew Absec couldn't allocate funds, yet he had to persist. If he didn't press the issue while the officers built such grandiose offices, they might think themselves untouchable! After all, there was a palace in Tiandu! With a sigh, Kabaha lamented, if only Wutu left a bit of silver in the treasury. Compared to Wutu's lavish expenditures, the officers' "wife funds" were trivial. Perhaps Zahed was right; he was too hasty. Footsteps approached outside the lounge, and a young officer entered. Kabaha prepared to stand, but the officer ignored him, addressing the young man beside him instead. "Mr. Zahed, please follow me." Zahed cast a regretful look at the old man but sighed and followed. "...Sir, the commander calls for me, I must take my leave," he announced. Kabaha didn't look at him, instead glaring at the officer with wide eyes. On orders to ignore him, the officer remained indifferent, leading Zahed away despite Kabaha's obvious frustration. --- In the Dominion Office, Absec set his pen down, scrutinizing the young man whose face bore a seemingly innocent smile. That smile hid a sharp blade beneath its harmless veneer, like a snake in the foliage. Indeed, Zahed hailed from the people of the Snake. While not one for racial stereotypes, Absec couldn't help the thought. As Absec studied him, Zahed performed a surprising act. "Greetings, Commander!" Zahed declared, performing a bow. "What are you doing!" Startled, Absec rushed over to support him, setting aside his scrutiny for the moment. Zahed muttered apologies, keeping his head lowered. "Apologies, I was overly excited upon seeing you and forgot my manners..." Absec sighed, speaking with heartfelt sincerity. "I must admonish you. The old Empire is gone. Boro's survivors have risen; there's no more kneeling." "You're right, absolutely right..." Zahed apologized, appearing genuinely regretful with an act of innocence. Seeing him, Absec maintained his smile, though his disdain grew. He felt somewhat contemptuous. For "Survivor Daily" to compare him to such a person was an insult! True, Absec wasn't a saint, but in the entire Boro Province, only Rasheen was his equal. His leniency was being taken for granted. Absec's mind turned, his fox-like grin widening. "...Ah, you wanted to join the military. Let's make it official." Returning to his desk, Absec drew up a commission document. After writing, he cleared his throat and assumed a solemn tone. "As of today, I appoint you commander of the Gray Wolf Army. Prepare for operations in the Snake State against the Legion." Even writing this document, Absec was amused, though he masked it well. The Gray Wolf Army was little more than bandits, responding neither to Emperor Akbar nor the United Front's peacemaking, stuck in the hills of Mazu clinging to their leader's ashes, sporadically skirmishing with Mammoth's border troops. This 'army' wasn't even part of Boro's forces. Given time, he'd crush them. The commission wasn't worth the paper it was written on. Especially considering the vast distance between Mazu and Snake State. If Zahed followed through on this commission, he'd likely face dire consequences at the hands of the Gray Wolf remnants or his own 'Horse King,' Sharukh. It would be wise for him to stay put at Kinjal Port. Absec beamed as he stamped the commission with the official seal. You're still too green to play these games with me! Zahed's expression turned conflicted. However, when Absec presented the commission, he accepted reluctantly. "...At your command!" "This mission is critical... do well, I have confidence in you!" Absec patted Zahed's shoulder, adopting an elder's encouraging demeanor. "...Thanks for the opportunity, Commander. I won't let you down," Zahed replied with a pained smile. Satisfied with Zahed's expression, Absec found his previous frustration alleviated. He failed to notice the cold smirk lingering as Zahed turned away. Receiving the commission, Zahed trudged away as if burdened, the paperwork heavy as lead. Yet, upon exiting, his steps grew buoyant, as if he had sprouted wings. Those in power saw only their own brilliance, blind to the hopes of ordinary people. Absec was skilled, sensing danger even where no flaw was detectable. But arrogance fueled by Alliance-backed confidence obscured his judgment. Passing through the Dominion gates, Zahed bid the old commissioner goodbye, discreetly hinting at his new orders, leaving amidst his indignation and earnest cautions. Outside, a waiting young man hurried over to him, trailing in Zahed's wake. "Sir, Absec didn't trouble you, did he?" Zahed chuckled softly. "That man, frightened by his own blood-soaked shadows, is a wannabe thief too cowardly to take. If he were truly decisive, I'd have gone to Rasheen, not him." The young man, Savar, seemed puzzled, adjusting his cap. "Isn't he decisive? Janusz was..." Not wanting to risk eavesdroppers, he trailed off. Zahed laughed heartily. "If you call that decisiveness, what does that make Janusz?" Savar looked to Zahed for insight as he continued. "See that old man Kabaha? He braves scolding Absec, but do you think he'd dare breathe a word before Janusz?" Not a chance. Even a sigh could have cost him his life. "But you said Mr. Kabaha is a good man..." "Indeed." Zahed grabbed a newspaper from a vendor, maintaining a detached demeanor. "Do you want to be a good man too?" Savar shook his head earnestly, humble and shy. "I'm your man, sir." Zahed smirked, gently patting the young man's head. "Time to set off." In the narrow street, the silhouettes of two figures, one tall and one short, slowly disappeared into the distance. They hailed a rickshaw heading toward the inland river port just outside Tiandu's eastern gate. A dozen transport ships had just docked, and a squadron of soldiers wearing gas masks disembarked, marching in unison toward the northern military base of the city. They moved with such urgency, as though racing against time, that not even the gates of hell would deter them. People instinctively cleared a path for them. Travelers hurrying with their luggage, laborers hauling goods, and those browsing at nearby stalls—all cast eyes of respect and admiration toward them. These were the exalted idealists. Amidst the crowd, Sava sighed with envy. "...If only we had people so devoted to our cause." Zahed, also watching the tall figures, replied softly. "We will." Meanwhile, at the frontlines of Lion State— A derelict steel train lay overturned in the wilderness of northwest Red Bull County. Its heavily armored carriages were tangled and buried deep in the earth, and its 902mm cannon had been catastrophically caved in by an electromagnetic shell. Leaning against a wrecked Chimera armored vehicle, Old Na breathed heavily, glancing at the LD-47 assault rifle in his hands before looking at the approaching metallic tide. This thing would be useless here... With a wry smile, he looked over at a captured enemy, bound securely and seated on the ground nearby. The black hood that covered the head of the Veylant soldier had fallen off, revealing a face filled with terror. Instead of sending him to his commander, Irena had simply shouted at him, "Get lost." Having killed so many, sparing one or two made little difference, and executing prisoners was hardly ethical. The Veylant soldier stared at him in disbelief, as if doubting his own ears. But Irena didn’t bother explaining. He just raised his rifle, aiming at him. "Bang!" Mimicking the sound of gunfire, he grinned at the terrified man who tumbled into the mud. The Veylant soldier scrambled to his feet, not daring to look back as he staggered away. Once back with his comrades, he'd likely share a tale of a narrow escape from death. Perhaps he'd even ponder why he had been sent here in the first place... The battlefield was void of life now. Irena took a labored breath, inspecting his blood-soaked thigh, then pressed the communicator button and transmitted a final message to his comrades in the Burning Corps. "This is the Skull Corps... We've exceeded our mission objectives. Not only have we taken out their armored train, but we've crippled the three divisions that tried to stop us, though we've also taken heavy damage ourselves." "What a waste of equipment. We used thermite, so you won't have to." "And if you encounter Boro's Eleventh Legion while they're conducting guerrilla warfare, make sure to get them out of here... the battle here is over." After a brief pause, a dispassionate voice crackled over the radio. Fang Chang: "Received, see you in three days." "Come on! Can’t you let me die gloriously?" Old Na cursed before ending the transmission and gazing toward the western night sky. In the pitch darkness, tracer rounds streaked brightly, exactly as he anticipated. The Legion was thoroughly enraged, not even intending to leave remains, opting instead for an execution by artillery fire. Or perhaps, they were simply frightened... "Hahaha! Dying for this was worth it... but damn, I've got another life to live!" Old Na laughed heartily, emptying a clip into the sky. The seething phosphorus rained down, engulfing him and the wrecked fortification behind him. If the Legion thought fire could consume them, they were gravely mistaken. It was only three days. He would return. To be continued.