meanwhile In the dimly lit war room of the Red Nation, tension hung in the air like a thick fog. The flickering screen illuminated a list of potential traitors, and Kassandra leaned over the table, her finger tracing the names with a mix of focus and flair.
“Alright, team! Classic dilemma time: strike team, strato cannon, or maybe just a little intel double-checking? You know, the usual ‘let’s not blow everything up just yet’ approach,” she said, a hint of mischief in her tone.
Zion, scanned the list with a serious expression. Each name represented a potential headache, and he knew that one wrong move could escalate a mere rebellion into a full-blown civil war.
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” he replied, his voice steady. “We need to verify this intel before we unleash any firepower. A strike team or the strato cannon could tip our hand too soon, and we don’t want to give them a reason to rebel—yet.”
Kassandra nodded, her eyes glinting with a mix of excitement and pragmatism. “Good call. But do we really need to wait for the purge before we start annexing Blood Khaganate territory? I mean, who doesn’t love a good land grab?”
Zion rubbed his chin thoughtfully, weighing her words. “Yes, let’s finish the purge first. It’ll clear out the disloyalists and make our annexation smoother. We don’t want to rush into things and end up with a mess on our hands.”
Kassandra smirked, appreciating his cautious approach. “Fair enough. Just remember, while we’re playing it safe, the clock is ticking. Opportunities don’t wait for anyone.”
Zion met her gaze, a flicker of determination in his eyes. “Then let’s make sure we’re ready to act when the time comes. We’ll keep our eyes open and our options flexible.”
A few days later, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. A red officer burst into the war room,
“Sir! You need to see this!” The screen flickered to life, revealing a local news segment from China.
The host, Veronica, announced, “Welcome back to Witty World News! Tonight, we’re diving into the heart of China, where the tea is hot and the warlords are hotter! Alam, the Wanderer, has gathered China’s finest warlords like Pokémon—gotta catch 'em all!”
Zion’s expression darkened as he watched the unfolding situation. “This is troubling. The Warlords are as unpredictable as a toddler with a sugar rush. One moment they’re building alliances, and the next, they’re throwing tantrums. If they unite under Alam, we’re in for a world of hurt.”
Kassandra folded her arms, a smirk forming. “Looks like Alam played his cards right. A truce with us, and now he’s got the warlords eating out of his hand.”
“True,” Zion admitted, “but this new alliance is a real threat to the free world. We need to stay ahead of it.”
Weaver, always practical, suggested, “Let’s pick them off one by one before they unite. Classic assassination. Who’s in?”
Juggernaut, eager for action, raised his hand. “Count me in! I’ll handle those warlords. We coordinate, we strike, and they won’t see it coming.”
Zion considered this. “Taking them all out at once would be ideal, but they’re scattered. Coordinating simultaneous attacks will be tough.”
Weaver nodded, thinking quickly. “They have regular meeting spots. If we can find those, we can take them out one after another without overextending ourselves.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Zion agreed. “Fast, precise strikes. We could use targeted airstrikes and Special Ops. Maximum impact, minimal collateral damage.”
Kassandra raised an eyebrow, a playful smile on her face. “But attacking True Horde territory breaks our truce with Alam. Just saying.”
Zion chuckled. “True, but Alam made it clear he’d understand if we dealt with the horde. As long as we don’t target him directly, we should be fine.”
Weaver nodded. “First, we secure China. The warlords are the biggest obstacle. As for Alam, I’m sure we can negotiate. He’s against the Red Nation; we just need to find common ground.”
Zion felt a glimmer of hope. “Exactly! With Alam’s help, we can dismantle the True Horde’s presence in China.”
Kassandra leaned forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “And how do you plan to turn an enemy into an ally?”
Zion’s expression became determined. “I’ll use my diplomatic charm on Alam. We’ll emphasize the shared threat of the Red Nation and explore potential collaboration.”
“Good luck with that,” Kassandra said, feigning seriousness. “Want to call him now?”
Zion nodded confidently. “Yes, let’s get him on the line.”
Moments later, Alam’s face appeared on the screen, a wide grin on his face. “Well, well, well… this is unexpected. Calling to surrender?”
Zion took a breath. “No, Alam. I’m not calling to surrender. Your gathering of warlords is a serious concern. I’d like to discuss it and find a way forward that works for both of us.”
Alam leaned back, crossing his arms. “Your massive build-up in Asia is concerning everyone. We’re on the verge of World War Four!”
Zion remained calm. “I understand the gravity of the situation. But our deployment is for defensive purposes. I have no intention of starting a global war.”
“hah!, Good. I’m not a fan of mass casualties either. So… what do you want?” Alam leaned back, arms still crossed, looking curious.
Zion smiled slightly. “I want to avoid unnecessary bloodshed. I know where this is heading. I propose an alternative.”
Alam raised an eyebrow. “Funny… last month you were trying to kill me. Now it’s all peace and love?”
Zion chuckled. “We’re both leaders. We have responsibilities. We’ve had our disagreements, but I’m willing to put them aside for the greater good.”
“Alright… I’m listening.” Alam leaned forward, intrigued.
Zion explained his plan. “The warlords in your territory are a threat to both of us. We can work together to eliminate them. We can also coordinate to weaken the Red Nation’s influence in Asia by targeting their infrastructure and military.”
Alam shook his head, smirking. “No. They’re my friends now. I know your game—you’re trying to create distrust among my allies.”
Zion nodded. “Your allies are our shared enemies. Taking them out weakens the Red Nation. But your alliance with them is temporary—just a way to balance our strength. Once we’re gone, they’ll turn on you.”
Alam laughed. “You’re wrong. My True Horde is for everyone. Even after this war.”
Zion smiled. “You might believe that, but the True Horde is a loose group of warlords. It’s fragile and will fall apart once the Red Nation is gone. You’re more of a tyrant holding onto power than a leader uniting them for the long term.”
“Thanks,” Alam said dryly. “But I’m holding my own. I have China, and you don’t.”
Zion chuckled. “True. You have the territory. But we have superior military strength and strategy. If it comes to war, we’ll win. It’s best to avoid unnecessary fighting. We’re willing to help you eliminate the Red Nation in Asia—that’s as far as we’ll go.”
Alam sniffed. “Just threats? I expected more. We’re friends, remember?” He winked.
Zion raised an eyebrow. “We were friends until you allied with the warlords and went against the free world.”
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
Alam’s expression changed, a hint of desperation showing. “If I had your strato cannon and elite forces, I could make the True Horde a much stronger alliance.”
Zion blinked, then nodded slowly. “So, you’re suggesting a truce where you downgrade your alliance to a defensive pact and we strengthen our trade? You want to use the strato cannon against the Red Nation and have our elite forces help you?”
“Exactly Red hair. Do you trust me with your toys?” Alam asked, eyes twinkling.
Zion considered this. “I think your offer is genuine. It’s a mutually beneficial truce. A win-win. What do you think?”
Alam frowned, rubbing his chin. “This is weird. I’d prefer you threw a tantrum instead of agreeing to my questionable proposal.”
Zion shook his head, amused. “Your proposal is unusual but practical. Your allies won’t stay with you after the Red Nation is gone. My elite forces can help you then, and the strato cannon can eliminate the Red Nation in Asia. This keeps your empire safe and weakens our common enemy.”
Alam’s brows furrowed. “Wait… you mean the Red Nation is a threat to you too? You hate your own nation?”
Zion’s expression turned serious. “The Red Nation is a threat to both of us and the free world. They have a powerful military, a strong economy, and ambitions of expansion. They threaten peace and stability everywhere.”
Alam tilted his head, confusion etched on his features. “What chess trick is this? What’s going on in your head? Why do you care more about those Warlords than your own army?”
Zion chuckled again, enjoying Alam’s bewilderment. “I’m trying to understand your motives and offer a practical solution. The Warlords are a threat to both of us, and this truce would benefit us both. The strato cannon can help us weaken the Red Nation's military capabilities, making it easier for both of us to defeat them. Those Warlords will only ally with you temporarily; they’ll turn against you once the Red Nation is out of the picture.”
Alam rubbed his temples vigorously. “WHAT?! You’re the leader of the Red Nation! Why are you even trying to fight them?”
Zion sighed, momentarily taken aback by Alam’s confusion. “I’m part of the Red Nation, yes, but I also represent the free world. I’m responsible for protecting my country and its people, even against a formidable adversary. It’s worth fighting for the freedom and security of the free world.”
“So wait… let me clarify. You’re part of the Red Nation, but you’ve formed your own faction within it? And that existing nation is your enemy? Is that what you’re trying to say?”
Zion nodded, resolute. “Yes, that’s correct. I’m part of the Red Nation, but I’ve formed my own faction within it. The Red Nation’s expansionist goals clash with my ideals, making it an enemy in many ways.”
“Why take a drastic measure like… destroying your own nation?” Alam leaned forward, skepticism etched on his face.
Zion’s expression shifted, turning serious as he pondered the question. “The Red Nation isn’t my nation anymore, at least not in any meaningful sense. It’s a dictatorship—corrupt and misguided for far too long. I believe that with the right leadership, it could be powerful and prosperous. But the current leader is steering it straight toward destruction.”
Alam nodded slowly, processing. “So you’ve formed a rebellion in your own court?”
“Yes,” Zion confirmed, his tone steady. “My goal is to overthrow the current leader and free the people from his tyranny.”
“And who is this current leader?”
Zion hesitated, recalling the name. “His name is Jin-Sung, known as the Red Dragon.”
Alam chuckled, the sound dripping with disbelief. “Funny… why have I never heard that name before?”
“Jin-Sung is a secretive figure,” Zion explained. “He prefers to lurk in the shadows, wielding influence without the public eye on him. Many outside the inner circle don’t know him.”
Alam squinted, a glimmer of suspicion in his eyes. “Why not just kill him like you did General Wu?”
Zion paused, weighing his words carefully. “Killing Jin-Sung wouldn’t solve the problem. He’s just a pawn for the Red Nation’s elite—a figurehead they use to maintain control. If we want to truly dismantle the Red Nation, we need to target its ruling class.”
Alam fell silent for a moment, contemplating. “I see… You’re putting me in a very weird situation. But what happens after Jin-Sung and the elites are gone?”
Zion leaned in, a confident grin spreading across his face. “Once the ruling elite is gone, the Red Nation will crumble. The military will be in chaos, and the people will rise up in rebellion. This power vacuum will give us an opportunity to act, allowing the free world to step in and take control.”
“You kind of remind me of Caesar,” Alam mused. “While he crossed the Alps to the Gauls, you’re crossing the Bering Strait.”
Zion chuckled, appreciating the comparison. “That’s an interesting analogy. Caesar conquered the Gauls with military brilliance, and I intend to do the same with the Red Nation. Though my path might not be as straightforward.”
“What happens if the Red Nation is truly yours?” Alam pressed.
Zion paused, considering the weight of the question. “If I take control, I’ll reform it into a nation that reflects my values. I’ll emphasize freedom, democracy, and human rights for all citizens. My focus will be on economic development and social progress, striving to create a vibrant, prosperous nation. I won’t be a tyrant like Jin-Sung; I’ll be accountable to the people.”
Alam burst into laughter, a mirthful cacophony that echoed through the room. “Hahaha! What a comedic line! How can the world trust a person like you to do that?”
Zion smirked, enjoying Alam’s reaction. “I sense you don’t trust me, Alam. That’s fair; I’ve given you reasons to be skeptical. But let me ask you this: do you trust the Red Nation as it stands? If they conquer Asia, do you really think they’ll spare you and your True Horde?”
Alam waved his hand dismissively. “Now, now… you’re the one commanding the army! If they come, they’ll kill me on your watch.”
Zion raised an eyebrow, surprised by Alam’s logic. “You make a valid point. I do lead the army, and I decide our next moves. If I send forces into your territory, there’s a chance we could target you and the Warlords.”
“Listen,” Alam said, his voice low and serious. “You’re mad. When the Crescent Alliance arrives, regardless of whether your rebellion succeeds, many people will die.”
Zion’s expression darkened as he replied, “You’re right. We can try to limit casualties, but war is brutal. People will die. However, I believe the sacrifice will be worth it if it means ending the Red Nation’s reign and liberating its people.”
Alam sighed, resigned. “Okay, in my strategic mind, the Red Army will weaken after you start your rebellion. So… please, go ahead and rebel.”
Zion nodded, recognizing Alam’s reluctant support. “Thank you, Alam. I know my rebellion will bring destruction and instability, but I believe the cost will be worth it. Your support could tip the scales in our favor.”
“DON’T put my name in the history books!,” Alam warned, a mock-seriousness in his tone. “I won’t help you; I just admire your madness.”
Zion’s expression turned mischievous. “I get the sense you want to keep your name out of this, so I won’t mention you. But you’re intelligent and strategic, and I believe you’ll find ways to assist me, whether you admit it or not.”
Alam crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes. “Just tell me—what can I do? And after that, I hope you die in your rebellion.”
Zion smiled, shaking his head. “You can do nothing. This is a personal affair between me and the Red Nation. You’re just a bystander with a stake in this conflict. I don’t want you involved; that would complicate things and increase the risks.”
“So, I just sit here and do nothing?” Alam retorted, incredulous. “Do you think I believe that? You must have a plan, like using me as a scapegoat, especially since you’re letting me use your army.”
Zion’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Oh, I do have a plan for you, Alam. But first, I need to know one thing: do you trust me?”
“Fifty-fifty,” Alam replied, a glint of mischief in his eye.
Zion couldn’t hide his surprise but remained composed. “I understand your caution. In that case, let me share my plan so we can discuss it further.”
“Okay… speak.”
A confident grin spread across Zion’s face. “My plan is to use you as a distraction. We’ll make it appear that you and the True Horde are invading Central Asia, drawing some of the Red Nation’s forces away from my rebellion. This will create an opening for me to strike from the other side, catching them off guard. What do you think?”
Alam considered this, his expression thoughtful. “And what happens after you take control of the Red Nation? Will we have peace?”
Zion’s demeanor turned serious as he answered. “That’s a good question, Alam. I’m not sure what will happen after I take control. But I know that once the Red Nation is under my leadership, I’ll be able to negotiate a diplomatic resolution to our conflict. I don’t plan to fight you or your people unless we can come to an understanding.”
Alam shook his head, skepticism lingering. “This is why I never trust you. You’ll always stab me in the back.”
“That’s not my intention at all,” Zion replied sharply, meeting Alam’s gaze with unwavering confidence. “I’ve given you my word that I won’t betray you. I’m willing to negotiate in good faith and preserve peace between our nations.”
Alam sighed, waving a hand dismissively. “Alright, do whatever you want. Good luck with your rebellion. I don’t want your army or your strato cannon. Having them in my hands would destroy my reputation.”
Zion’s expression remained solemn. “I understand your concerns, Alam. The Red Nation’s army and strato cannon are threats to your reputation. I’ll keep a close eye on them and won’t act against your interests. Let’s leave this matter here for now. I wish you luck in your defense of Central Asia. I’ll proceed with my rebellion, and we’ll see what happens next.”
Alam chuckled, a hint of genuine camaraderie breaking through. “I hope that one day, I can truly understand you. Farewell.”
Zion nodded, a small smile on his face. “Farewell for now, Alam. May we find a brighter future where we can truly understand one another.”
The call ended. A long pause hung in the air before Kassandra nodded slowly. “I see… he didn’t take the bait. But with the right framing, Alam can still be a scapegoat.”
A mischievous smile spread across Zion’s face. “It seems that Alam is not as easy to manipulate as I thought. I will have to use more subtle means to involve him in my plans.”
Weaver raised an eyebrow at Zion’s smirk. “Are you thinking what I think you’re thinking? If Alam doesn’t take the bait, you might be planning some kind of ruse to draw him in.”
A playful grin spread across Zion’s face. “Don’t act so shocked, Weaver! Yes, I am pondering some potential methods for involving Alam in my plans. It is clear that he is not easily deceived, but I am confident that I can find a way to bring him into my web of deception.”
Weaver’s grin matched Zion’s. “I knew it! I knew you had some kind of trick up your sleeve. But what kind of ruse do you plan on using? How are you going to fool Alam into playing right into your hands?”
Zion’s face took on a mischievous expression, as he responded with a tone that was both playful and self-assured. “I’m not going to divulge my exact plan, Weaver. That would spoil the surprise! However, rest assured that I have a few clever ideas in mind. I’m sure that once I get the ball rolling, Alam will fall for my ruse like a fly into a spider’s web.”
Weaver grinned, enjoying the back-and-forth banter. “Alright, you’ve got me curious. The ball is already rolling, so I guess we’ll have to wait and see how Alam reacts. I’m sure your ruses will be brilliant! But, no doubt, Alam will have some countermoves that are just as cunning, if not more so. The real question is, which one of us is the better schemer?”
A playful grin spread across Zion’s face, as he continued to enjoy the banter. “Ah, now we’re finally getting to the crux of the matter! We have both demonstrated our skills in the art of strategy and manipulation. But once the dice have been thrown, only one of us can come out on top. It will be a battle of wits and a test of our strategic prowess. Let the best man win!”