MTLNOVEL Chapter 22: Chapter 22: The Iron March
Chapter 22: The Iron March
Jack's Perspective
The Command Center was alive with activity, the holographic map displaying Jack's growing territory in vivid detail. With Meridios fully integrated into his empire, Jack's nation now stretched across fertile farmlands and fortified towns. Garron's Ridge had become a symbol of his military power, its defenses impenetrable after the Altherian assault.
Eve's voice chimed in, calm and efficient. "Commander, resource production is at peak efficiency. The new industrial hub near Meridios' southern border is operational and producing artillery platforms. Current military strength stands at 24 RPC-01 combat vehicles, 50 advanced drones, and 12 stationary artillery emplacements."
Jack nodded, his mind already working through the next steps. "What's the situation with Altheria?"
"Satellite surveillance indicates minimal movement from their forces. Fort Karron remains their central stronghold, but morale appears low following their defeat at Garron's Ridge."
Jack smirked. "Good. They're licking their wounds. Let's make sure they don't get back up."
Mobilizing the War Machine
Jack stepped into the base's motor pool, where a new line of artillery platforms stood ready. These machines were larger and more imposing than the RPC-01 vehicles, their long-barreled railguns designed to obliterate enemy fortifications from a distance.
Unit 01 followed closely. "Commander, the artillery platforms are fully operational. Shall we deploy them to the border?"
"Not yet," Jack replied. "We'll use them when the time is right. For now, focus on training the Meridios recruits. I want them capable of operating the vehicles and drones within the week."
The recruits were a mix of farmers, tradesmen, and former guardsmen, now clad in uniforms and undergoing rigorous training. Jack's clones drilled them relentlessly, ensuring they could operate the machines with precision.
"Eve," Jack said, "assign a portion of the drones to act as instructors for the recruits. I want them combat-ready as soon as possible."
"Understood, Commander," Eve replied. "Training schedules updated."
The Siege of Fort Karron
Two weeks later, Jack's forces were ready to strike. His plan was simple: crush Altheria's military strength at Fort Karron and bring the kingdom to its knees. The holographic map displayed the fortress in detail, its stone walls reinforced with mana-based barriers and guarded by thousands of soldiers.
"Eve, tactical assessment?" Jack asked.
"Fort Karron's defenses rely heavily on static barriers powered by mana crystals embedded within the walls," Eve explained. "Their offensive capabilities are limited to mana-powered ballistae and traditional siege engines. Estimated time to breach: two hours."
Jack's smirk widened. "Let's give them a show."
The Iron March
At dawn, Jack's army advanced toward Fort Karron. The sight was both awe-inspiring and terrifying—rows of RPC-01 combat vehicles flanked by artillery platforms, with drones swarming overhead. Behind them marched the newly trained Meridios recruits, their faces hardened with determination.
From the fortress walls, Sir Roderic watched the advancing force with growing dread. "It's... unstoppable," he muttered.
General Kael stood beside him, his jaw clenched. "Then we fight to the last. Altheria does not surrender."
The Battle Begins
The first barrage came from Jack's artillery platforms. Their railguns fired with thunderous force, each shot tearing massive chunks from the fortress walls. Altherian ballistae retaliated, their glowing mana bolts streaking through the air, but the drones intercepted them with precision, detonating the projectiles mid-flight.
As the walls began to crumble, the RPC-01 vehicles surged forward, their railguns ripping through enemy formations. Altherian knights charged to meet them, their mana-infused weapons glowing brightly, but they were no match for the machines' overwhelming firepower.
From the Command Center, Jack monitored the battle in real-time. "Eve, status?"
"Enemy defenses are collapsing," Eve reported. "Mana reserves within the fortress are nearly depleted. Victory is imminent."
Jack's gaze remained fixed on the map. "Send the drones to neutralize any remaining resistance. No survivors."
Altheria's Last Stand
Inside the crumbling fortress, General Kael rallied his remaining troops for a desperate counterattack. "We will not go quietly!" he roared, leading a charge against the incoming vehicles.
Sir Roderic hesitated, torn between loyalty to his kingdom and the futility of their resistance. As Kael fell beneath the relentless assault of Jack's machines, Roderic dropped his weapon and raised his hands in surrender.
Victory
By nightfall, the battle was over. Fort Karron lay in ruins, its once-proud defenders either dead or captured. Jack arrived on the battlefield, his exosuit glinting in the firelight as he surveyed the destruction.
Unit 01 approached. "Commander, the fortress is secure. Altherian leadership has been neutralized. Sir Roderic has surrendered and requests an audience."
Jack's smirk returned. "Bring him to me."
Roderic's Plea
Sir Roderic knelt before Jack, his armor battered and bloodied. "You've won," he said, his voice heavy with defeat. "Altheria is yours. But I beg you—spare the civilians. They had no part in this war."
Jack studied him coldly. "Spare them? After everything your kingdom has done?"
"They're farmers and craftsmen," Roderic said desperately. "They don't deserve to suffer for Kael's arrogance."
Jack was silent for a moment, then nodded. "Fine. The civilians will be spared. But Altheria is no more—it's part of my nation now. Any resistance will be crushed."
Roderic lowered his head. "Thank you."
Aftermath
Back at the Command Center, Eve displayed updated metrics on Jack's empire.
Population: 8,400 (including Altherian civilians)
Territory Size: Expanded by 40%
Military Strength: 36 RPC-01 vehicles, 20 artillery platforms, 75 drones
Resource Levels: Stable
"Commander," Eve said, "this victory has solidified your control over the region. Altheria's remaining forces have scattered, and their civilians are complying with integration efforts."
Jack nodded, a faint smile on his lips. "Good. Begin fortifying the new territory. And keep an eye on the other kingdoms—we've just made a lot of enemies."
End of Chapter 22
"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.
2. Share this tale with friends or allies who would stand beside Jack in his quest to create a better future.
3. Engage with the story by sharing your thoughts in the comments. Your words of encouragement can inspire Jack's rise and make you part of his journey.
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!"