Shadows of the Deep Space Chapter 1757: 551: Outbreak of War

~5 minute read · 1,180 words
Previously on Shadows of the Deep Space...
A Curvature Interference Device on the Nether Moon Star Defense Line is sabotaged, triggering a battle alert. Meanwhile, the Heavenly Revelation Divine Country's army arrives, and the Fanluo God Emperor appoints Commander Misar as Divine Envoy before ordering him to lead the first assault wave against the defense line, positioning other troops to ensure their advance.

Chapter 1757: Chapter 551: Outbreak of War

Commander Soraya’s strong reaction left Long Chen and his companions looking at her with considerable confusion, as they struggled to grasp the reason behind her intense response.

“Soraya, is everything alright?”

Commander Fulaya inquired, his own brow furrowed in puzzlement.

“It’s nothing; let us proceed with our discussion on battle strategies,” Soraya managed, forcing down the surge of anger within her.

“Very well.” Recognizing Soraya’s reluctance to elaborate, Commander Fulaya chose not to press the matter further.

At that moment, Gwen stepped forward, her hand moving to interact with the holographic projection interface. The detailed defensive configuration of the entire Nether Moon Star materialized before them. The defense line was strategically arrayed in a cross pattern, with Curvature Interference Devices positioned at the extremities—top, bottom, left, and right—along with one at the center, collectively forming a protective, umbrella-like interference barrier. However, the device on the right flank, designated No. 5, had sustained damage and was no longer operational, thereby creating a vulnerability in their otherwise robust shield. Fortunately, situated directly behind the compromised No. 5 device was another functioning Curvature Interference Device, offering a secondary layer of defense.

“Esteemed colleagues,” Gwen announced, her gaze sweeping over the assembled group, “the enemy forces are advancing directly towards the damaged No. 5 Curvature Interference Device, evidently intending to exploit this weakest point in our defenses.”

“Dispatch the order to prepare for engagement!” Long Chen commanded, his voice resonating with gravity.

“Understood!”

Nether Moon Star Defense Line.

Within the central command hub of the Star Destroyer·Star Hidden, Second Legion Commander Shari’s expression grew severe upon receiving the latest intelligence.

She then addressed General Angulat, Admiral Aifulin, Mia, and the others with utmost seriousness.

“We have just received word: the vanguard element of the Heavenly Revelation Divine Country is rapidly closing in on our established defense perimeter.”

“And who is commanding this vanguard force?” Mia inquired, a flicker of curiosity in her tone.

“Commander Misar and his contingent,” Shari replied, her countenance betraying a hint of complex emotion.

“What? How could it be them?”

Upon hearing this revelation, Admiral Aifulin and the others present stiffened, their faces contorting with visible displeasure.

Despite their long-standing stationing at the Abyss of Descent and the outward appearance of deep-seated animosity towards Misar’s forces, it was revealed that this conflict was largely a carefully orchestrated charade. In reality, they had maintained a state of peaceful coexistence for a considerable period, punctuated only by minor, infrequent skirmishes. The more significant battles that had occurred subsequently were largely instigated by directives from higher authorities, with much of the actual fighting directed against the fervent adherents of the Fanluo God Emperor. Even during the climactic confrontation with Andro, Commander Misar and his unit had notably refrained from seizing the opportunity to attack them; in fact, they had even displayed a degree of leniency and offered guidance.

At this juncture, Shari spoke with measured calm. “Frankly, I harbor no desire to engage them in combat either. After so many years of shared experience, our bond with them transcends mere camaraderie; it’s something far more profound.”

“Surely there must be an alternative?” Mia ventured, her brow knitted in concern.

“Regrettably, there is none. All personnel must prepare themselves and await further instructions,” Shari declared, issuing her final command to Mia and the others.

“Yes, Commander!”

Mia and the others turned, departing towards the hangar bay.

Star Destroyer·Praise Light.

Within its expansive hangar bay, military officers convened, their voices rising in a chorus of indignant discussion.

“How could they do this?!”

“Dispatching us as the initial wave clearly marks us as expendable cannon fodder!”

“This is utterly outrageous!”

A palpable sense of suppressed fury permeated the assembled soldiers.

Meanwhile, in the Central Control Room, Legion Commander Momesk, Archbishop Deshier, Archbishop Akain, Limi, and several other key figures gazed grimly at Commander Misar.

“Commander Misar, the troops below are expressing considerable discontent,” Legion Commander Momesk stated, his tone laced with irritation.

It was clear to everyone present that the true intentions of the Fanluo God Emperor were becoming increasingly evident, particularly with the oversight provided by Vice Patriarch Edrigge’s forces positioned behind their lines.

Commander Misar remained silent, offering no response to Legion Commander Momesk’s observation. He understood that whatever action they took, it would be perceived as wrong; they were truly caught in an inescapable predicament.

Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the chamber. Commander Misar and the others turned their heads to see a man clad in pristine white robes, his features gentle, entering the room accompanied by a retinue of subordinates.

A collective frown creased the faces of those present upon the newcomer’s arrival.

“Saim, what business brings you here?” Legion Commander Momesk inquired, his voice sharp and unwelcoming.

Saim’s official standing wasn’t particularly high, but his status as a trusted attendant to the Fanluo God Emperor suggested that his presence boded no good.

“Commander Misar,” Saim responded, a smile playing on his lips, “I have been dispatched by our esteemed Lord God Emperor with the specific mission to bolster morale.”

“Bolster morale?” Commander Misar and the others exchanged bewildered glances, questioning Saim’s pronouncement.

With another smile, Saim raised his wristband and made a few swift taps. Simultaneously, the wristbands of everyone in the room vibrated, each receiving a video transmission. Legion Commander Momesk activated his own wristband, revealing the image of an elderly woman, her face etched with wrinkles yet radiating a gentle warmth.

“My son, fight valiantly on the front lines,” the woman’s voice, filled with affection, resonated from the device. “Do not concern yourself with my well-being. Lord Fanluo God Emperor is providing us with exceptional care, even relocating us to a secure haven where we lack nothing and are attended to by numerous individuals…”

A grimace contorted Legion Commander Momesk’s features as he gazed upon the image of his aged mother. Archbishop Deshier, meanwhile, observed the image of his youngest granddaughter with silent intensity. “Grandpa, you are the most incredible,” the adorable little girl declared, beaming a bright smile at Archbishop Deshier. “I eagerly await your glorious return, so we can play together….”

Every soul within the command center, from the esteemed Commander Misar to the diligent operators, was graced with congratulatory videos.

Not only were they the recipients; all dispatched officers, crucial personnel at key locations, and the rank-and-file soldiers were similarly sent videos and images.

Saim, at this opportune moment, disregarded the rising ire around him and offered a smile to Misar and his colleagues.

"The revered Fanluo God Emperor has personally ensured the well-being of your families, granting you the peace of mind to dedicate yourselves to this crucial battle. They await your victorious return, assured of the highest standard of care!"

"We are eternally grateful to the Lord God Emperor," Misar managed, his voice thick with emotion after a prolonged silence.

"I shall relay Commander Misar's profound gratitude to the Lord God Emperor. Farewell."