Two weeks after the Philippine operation, reports of victory poured in. The rebel factions had been obliterated. However, peace did not reign long within the ranks of the UKA. Whispers of discontent began to spread, primarily among the older generals who felt threatened by Cipto's rapid rise to power.
At an emergency meeting in the UKA headquarters, Alexandre stood in front of the council, projecting critical intel regarding a growing threat in Central Asia. A group of insurgents, more dangerous and better funded than those in the Philippines, had emerged in Kazakhstan.
"These rebels," Alexandre explained, pointing at the holographic map, "are armed with advanced technology, far beyond what we encountered in the Philippines. Satellite feeds show fortified underground bases equipped with anti-air systems."
"Do you truly believe another full-scale operation is necessary for this?" scoffed Sudrajat from his seat. The elder general's contempt for Cipto was no longer subtle.
Before Alexandre could respond, Cipto stepped forward. The room grew quiet as his calm yet imposing presence dominated the space.
"General Sudrajat," Cipto said in a tone devoid of emotion, "I gave you the benefit of the doubt once. Tell me, how many more rebels do you want to empower by delaying action?"
Sudrajat opened his mouth but immediately closed it.
Turning back to the map, Cipto addressed everyone. "Our mission is to secure UKA's unity. Alexandre, deploy reconnaissance teams immediately. Grock, fortify Central Asia's borders. The rest of you…remember that there's no tolerance for betrayal in my army."
Later that night, Alexandre approached Cipto privately. "Commander, I've noticed unusual movements in Sudrajat's faction. It seems he's in communication with rogue elements."
Cipto didn't respond immediately, his expression remaining calm. After a few moments, he simply said, "Let him think he has the upper hand. We'll deal with this soon."
As suspected, Sudrajat was revealed to be conspiring with insurgents. Within days, Cipto and his elite team infiltrated Sudrajat's private meeting in a remote villa. When Sudrajat tried to escape, Cipto planted his staff into the ground, unleashing a massive tremor that shattered the building's foundation and left Sudrajat at his mercy.
"Kneel," Cipto commanded. Trembling, Sudrajat complied.
"This is the fate of all traitors," Cipto declared before delivering the final blow, ensuring Sudrajat's ambitions would never be realized.
With Sudrajat gone, Cipto's power solidified further. But the lingering shadows of rebellion hinted that this was only the beginning of greater challenges to come.