The Caelestis Empire: Rebuilding a Kingdom from Ashes

Chapter 9: Amidonia's Gambit

The tension in the air was palpable. In the days following the initial skirmishes, reports flooded in from scouts and spies detailing Amidonia's frantic preparations for a larger assault. Augustus knew that Amidonia would not give up easily, especially after their failed attempts to breach Elfrieden's defenses. Rumors of a mysterious new weapon had begun circulating, adding to the uncertainty and anxiety among his advisors and soldiers.

Augustus stood in the war room, his eyes focused on the large map spread out before him, marked with symbols representing troop movements, supply lines, and potential targets. Around him were his key advisors—Liscia, Duke Carmine, Count Marx, and Captain Elda of the elite unit.

"Amidonia is massing troops near the southern border," Augustus began, tracing a line on the map with his finger. "They're planning something big, and we need to be ready."

Duke Carmine nodded, his face set with determination. "We've held them back so far, but if they're preparing for a full-scale assault, we'll need to reinforce our positions along the entire front."

Count Marx, ever cautious, added, "We should also prepare for the possibility that they'll use this new weapon of theirs. We don't know what it is yet, but we should assume it's something that could change the tide of battle."

Augustus turned to Liscia. "Any updates from our intelligence network? Have we identified what this weapon might be?"

Liscia shook her head, frustration evident in her expression. "Not yet. Our scouts have reported increased activity around Amidonia's southern fortresses, but they've been unable to get close enough to see anything definitive. Whatever it is, they're guarding it closely."

Captain Elda, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. "Perhaps we could try a different approach. A diversion, maybe—create enough chaos near one of their strongholds to draw their attention away, giving our spies a chance to get closer."

Augustus considered this for a moment, then nodded. "That could work. A small, mobile unit could strike at their supply lines, forcing them to react. Meanwhile, we send in a team to gather intelligence on this weapon."

Duke Carmine grinned. "I like it. Bold and unexpected. I volunteer to lead the diversion myself."

Augustus smiled. "Thank you, Duke Carmine. I'll leave the planning to you. Captain Elda, I want your best scouts ready to move in as soon as we have their attention."

Elda saluted. "Understood, Lord Augustus."

Liscia leaned closer to Augustus, her voice low. "And what about you? Where will you be?"

Augustus met her gaze, his golden eyes steady. "I'll be coordinating the defense here. But I have a feeling that Amidonia is planning something more than just a direct assault. We need to be ready for anything."

Liscia nodded, her expression serious. "I trust your instincts, Augustus. We'll be ready."

The Diversion: Striking Amidonia's Supply Lines

Duke Carmine wasted no time in organizing the diversionary strike. Under cover of darkness, he led a small, elite force into the borderlands, targeting a key supply convoy heading toward Amidonia's forward base. The plan was to hit them hard and fast, then withdraw before the enemy could mount a proper response.

As the convoy approached a narrow pass, Duke Carmine's forces moved into position. He raised his hand, signaling his archers to prepare their enchanted crossbows. "Wait for my command," he whispered, his eyes locked on the approaching enemy.

The Amidonia soldiers, unaware of the ambush, continued their march, the clatter of hooves and the creak of wagon wheels echoing through the pass.

"Now!" Duke Carmine shouted, and his archers let loose a volley of arrows, each bolt glowing with magical energy. The arrows struck with deadly accuracy, piercing through armor and wood alike. The convoy was thrown into chaos, shouts of alarm and pain filling the air.