Ad Astra - The Alagore War

AA V3 Vagahm, Chapter 11

"To General Sherman. I am officially reporting that the 5th Rangers, 4th Battalion, 4th ID have successfully pulled back from the Hiplose forest. The Rangers and Minutemen under my command at Salva provided cover.

The enemy had successfully reclaimed their old positions, closing in on their containment around Salva. While it would have been ideal to maintain those positions, the enemy was suddenly reinforced by a Brigaton (Salva allies inform that the Brigaton is called Versum, after its commander), overwhelming the 4th Battalion Brigade. This was expected as the offensive was a delayed operation to allow time to fortify our position at Salva.

My recon teams can confirm that the Verliance Aristocracy is preparing for a siege. This was expected. I have attached the current status of Salva's manpower and defensive strength below. Much of the eastern and southern walls were rebuilt. Construction of a northern keep to protect our blind spot is underway, but will take additional time to complete.

The bright news is the successful negotiations with the Dwarf borrian, (Vagahm) south of the city. They have agreed to release the prisoners, which our Salva allies were thrilled about. The proper agreement is being worked on and will be attached to you when it is complete. The treaty has my full endorsement, and I think you should endorse it as well to prevent hostilities. This is a significant victory for us, as we are no longer preparing for a new war in the region and can now focus on the matter at hand—the defense of Salva.

I am confident we will be able to hold the City-State of Salva, but I request additional damage-control units as soon as possible. The Militia are hardened and motivated now that their families have returned and have seen the level of commitment we have shown in defending their city. My overall point is that we are not rushing blindly into an unknown situation but are now ready to make a proper stand. We are prepared to withhold anything the Verliance Aristocracy or Unity throw at us." – Colonel Hackett

March 19th, 2069 (military calendar)

Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore

*****

Facing the wooden desk repurposed from Salva Palace, Captain Mathew Ryder watched his superior, Colonel William Hackett, the Minuteman commander, type on his laptop with deliberate focus, as if intentionally ignoring him. Ryder had been summoned, yet for the past five minutes, the Colonel hadn't acknowledged his presence—an unusual tension for their typically direct rapport.

After a few more minutes, Hackett leaned back in his chair, fixing his gaze on Ryder.

"Good work," he said bluntly. "You and the girl got the civilians back and prevented a third front from opening. For now."

"You sound almost surprised, sir," Ryder replied, a hint of challenge in his tone.

"I prefer to keep one Hail Mary in reserve per campaign," Hackett said, his voice dry. "I'm a bit annoyed I had to play it this early on Alagore, but you two pulled it off."

"To be fair, sir, it was her idea," Ryder said. "Staying behind after the botched opening, figuring out what the dwarves really wanted. I just helped her prepare for the meeting."

Hackett clasped his hands, his stare unwavering, which set Ryder on edge. Normally, the Colonel would have signaled for a casual debrief by now, but the formal air lingered. Something was amiss.