Chapter 20: Securing Meridios
Jack's Perspective
The forward base was alive with activity. Refugees worked side by side with clones, building new housing and expanding agricultural zones to support the growing population. The caravan from Meridios had settled in, their wagons unloaded and goods cataloged into Jack's ever-growing inventory. Despite the temporary sense of calm, Jack knew conflict was inevitable.
Eve's voice broke through the hum of machinery. "Commander, reports indicate increased Altherian troop activity near the southern border of Meridios. Satellite imagery suggests the construction of forward camps."
Jack leaned over the holographic map, which displayed Altheria's movements in real-time. Red markers indicated their forces encroaching dangerously close to Meridios' vulnerable towns.
"They're testing us," Jack muttered. "Eve, how many combat vehicles are operational?"
"Production of RPC-01 light combat vehicles is complete," Eve replied. "Twelve units are ready for deployment. Additionally, defensive turrets and automated drone systems are fully operational in key positions."
Unit 01 approached, his mechanical tone unwavering. "Commander, should we mobilize the vehicles to Meridios' border?"
Jack shook his head. "Not yet. We fortify the towns first. Let Altheria make the first move—they'll show us their tactics, and we'll respond accordingly."
Fortifying Meridios
Within hours, Jack's transport vehicles escorted workers and drones into Meridios. The small towns, which had been little more than scattered farming communities, were transformed into fortified outposts. Automated turrets were erected at strategic points, and drones patrolled the skies. The sight of Jack's machines working with relentless efficiency left the Meridios villagers in awe.
Darius, the emissary, stood beside Jack as they surveyed the progress. "I never imagined such a transformation was possible in so little time," he said, his voice filled with a mix of gratitude and fear.
Jack didn't respond immediately, his eyes fixed on the horizon. "This is just the beginning. If Altheria pushes, they'll find out exactly what these machines are capable of."
Darius hesitated before speaking again. "Do you truly believe you can stand against them? Altheria's forces are vast, and their mages are formidable."
Jack's lips curled into a smirk. "Their mages have never faced anything like me."
Altheria's Advance
At Fort Karron, Sir Roderic stood at the front of a massive army assembled for a southern campaign. Thousands of knights, foot soldiers, and mages filled the ranks, their banners flying high. Siege engines and mana-powered ballistae rolled into position, their crews preparing for an assault on Meridios.
General Kael, the head of Altheria's military, addressed the gathered troops. "Meridios has betrayed us by allying with this so-called Iron King. Today, we remind them—and him—that Altheria is the dominant power in this region."
Roderic, however, remained uneasy. The memory of Jack's machines lingered in his mind, and the reports from scouts painted a grim picture. Meridios' once-vulnerable towns were now fortified, bristling with strange defenses.
"General," Roderic said cautiously, "we should not underestimate the Iron King's machines. A direct assault could cost us dearly."
Kael scoffed. "Machines are soulless. They cannot adapt, cannot outthink us. This Iron King is nothing more than a pretender hiding behind his toys."
Roderic frowned but held his tongue. He prayed the general's arrogance wouldn't lead them to ruin.
The Battle Begins
The first clash came at the border town of Garron's Ridge, a small Meridios settlement that Jack had fortified as a forward position. Altherian forces advanced in tight formations, their knights leading the charge while mages hurled spells to disrupt Jack's defenses.
But the machines were ready.
As the Altherian knights charged, automated turrets swiveled into position, firing precise bursts of energy that cut through their ranks. Drones swooped down from the skies, releasing explosive charges that sent shockwaves through the battlefield. The RPC-01 combat vehicles roared into action, their railgun-mounted turrets piercing even the heaviest armor.
From the Command Center, Jack monitored the battle in real-time. "Eve, status?"
"Altherian forces are suffering significant losses," Eve replied. "Their mages are attempting to disable the turrets with mana disruption spells, but the defenses are holding."
Jack's smirk deepened. "Good. Show them what happens when magic meets science."
Roderic's Realization
From the rear of the battlefield, Sir Roderic watched in horror as Altheria's forces were torn apart by Jack's machines. Knights fell before they could even reach the town's walls, and mages were overwhelmed by the sheer precision and power of the defenses.
"This isn't a battle," Roderic muttered. "It's a massacre."
General Kael, however, refused to retreat. "Press the attack! Their machines can't hold out forever!"
Roderic clenched his fists. "You fool. We're throwing lives away."
When the drones began targeting the siege engines, Roderic made his decision. He turned to his personal guard. "Pull back. Inform the general that I am retreating to regroup. We need a new strategy."
Kael glared at him but said nothing as Roderic and his men retreated from the slaughter.
Victory at Garron's Ridge
By nightfall, the battle was over. Altherian forces lay scattered across the plains, their advance halted. Jack stood at the edge of Garron's Ridge, surveying the battlefield. Smoke rose from the wreckage of Altherian siege engines, and the bodies of knights and mages littered the ground.
Unit 01 approached. "Commander, the enemy has retreated. Minimal damage to our defenses. No casualties among our forces."
Jack nodded. "Begin cleanup and salvage operations. Strip their equipment for resources and analyze their weaponry."
Eve's voice chimed in. "Commander, this victory has solidified our control over Meridios. Civilian morale is high, and additional refugees are requesting entry into the territory."
Jack turned back toward the fortified town, his expression cold. "Good. Let them see what happens when you stand with me."
End of Chapter 20
"Every great journey begins with a single step. Jack's story is one of resilience, ambition, and the determination to rise above impossible odds. Right now, you're witnessing the birth of something extraordinary—a vision of unity, strength, and progress that will one day shape the entire world.
But no empire is built alone. If you believe in Jack's vision, here's how you can join the cause:
1. Save this story to your library or collection to follow every twist, challenge, and triumph as the foundations of the Imperium are laid.
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Together, we can make this dream a reality!
This is more than just a story—it's the beginning of an empire. Every step forward depends on those who believe in the power of progress. Thank you for joining Jack as he fights to carve a path in a chaotic world. Let's rise together and build something unforgettable!"