Saga of the Bridgers-Year 7

Chapter 24: Cloud City

August 5, 2227.

Another day. Another rotation at the front. Iulius observed the men of the division that had been pushing past the greenhouse. They were battered, and had lost 10% of their companions, however they were in high spirits: that day was package day, when they received food or some trinkets from their loved ones, and the mail was supposed to arrive when the new unit arrived to replace the current one, which would allow the men to enjoy their boxes to the fullest.

On his part, Iulius often received messages from Namedra and Sekta, who were basically the only civilians he had any human relationship with, since his brother was an enemy.

He was quite surprised when not only the assigned division arrived, but also the entire staff of Generals and high officers participating in the campaign, led by none other than Octis himself. The delegation clearly went to him and stood in line with a severe look.

"Hello, sir." Octis started with a cordial tone, but the look in his eyes was clearly reprimanding.

Iulius decided to oversee that. "Captain. I wasn't expecting you...or all of you gentlemen."

"Sir, we need to talk." General Merl of the 193rd Division said.

"About what?"

"You need to take a break." Octis blurted out bluntly. "You can't keep going on like this."

Iulius sighed and rolled his eyes. "This again?"

"Yes, this again! The doctors say it's a miracle that you're still not exhausted, but since your concern for your own health won't cover the bill, allow me to give you another reason."

With that, Octis whipped out a datapad from his pouch. Iulius took it and looked at the data on it. His eyes barred shortly after.

"The rebels are preparing a counterattack." Octis voiced. "We need you back on the Admonitor. Now."

Iulius gave another look, but there was no doubt about it. However, he still didn't like the idea of leaving the soldiers on the ring while he sat on the bridge.

"Sir." Kavener, who had just recovered from his own injury from the battle of the greenhouse, stepped forward and spoke calmly. "Every single one of us, officer or soldier, know just how much you've done for us. Nobody would dare to call you a coward after you alone served on the frontline more than literally all the units of this campaign. But now let us do our job, clear your mind and prepare for the next round. Staying here only jeopardizes the entire battle."

Not like the Lord-Protector didn't get that on his own, but hearing it made him feel better.

He sighed in resignation. "All right. I'll go back with the rest of them."

The officers made an expression of relief. "Thank you." Octis finally said with a frustrated relief.

Next, one of the generals went to yell at the men that the post would be waiting at Dock 4 because of logistical problems, so the departing men eagerly packed their bags, let their comrades take position and finally got on their way. The generals, having reached their objective, had already left, and Iulius waited to move with the troops.

He was only accompanied by Octis, who brought him up to speed about his recent trip to the rebel listening post and the discoveries made about their plans.

"Any idea when the attack could spring?"

"No. I suppose that their attempt during the battle of the greenhouse was just a test to see if they had a chance. But if you ask me, I think they might first try to hit our flanks. Our fleet is already stretched thin, after all." Octis replied.