The meeting room of the UKA's military headquarters was bustling with discussions. Dozens of high-ranking officials gathered around the large oval holographic table to review Cipto's latest directive to deploy troops into the Philippines. Over the years, resistance movements in Asia had grown bolder, and the Philippines became a hotspot for rebellion.
Standing at the center of the room was Cipto, a tall young man with short black hair, wearing the iconic black-and-gold uniform of UKA's supreme commanders. His left hand clutched a black staff engraved with golden symbols—both a weapon and a symbol of his unparalleled status.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Cipto began, his deep voice commanding absolute attention. "The insurgence in the Philippines is no longer a regional issue. It's a direct attack on the sovereignty of UKA. If we delay action, the rebellion will only spread further."
Silence filled the room. Even the most seasoned commanders, many decades older than Cipto, dared not challenge him. Alexandre, standing by Cipto's side, opened a holographic map showing rebel strongholds.
"We've confirmed the involvement of international smugglers arming these rebels. The weapons include high-caliber artillery that could jeopardize our supply routes. A swift strike is necessary," Alexandre explained.
One general in the room, however, wasn't convinced. General Sudrajat, an elder veteran, crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair. "Commander Cipto," he started, with a hint of arrogance, "I don't mean to question your judgment, but don't you think deploying our elite forces over a minor rebellion is overkill?"
The room went silent.
Cipto smiled faintly, the kind of smile that sent chills down spines. He turned towards Sudrajat and said in a calm, controlled voice, "Overkill, you say? Do you believe one thousand deaths are minor? Because that's what this 'minor rebellion' has caused in the past month."
Sudrajat froze. Before he could respond, Cipto raised his staff and planted it firmly on the ground. A light tremor spread throughout the room, silencing any further protests.
"The decision is final. Alexandre will lead the strike team into the Philippines. Grock, Rose, and Erwin will secure nearby borders. We end this rebellion within two weeks."
"Yes, Supreme Commander," Alexandre replied sharply.
The generals filed out of the room one by one, muttering amongst themselves.