MTLNOVEL Chapter 26: Chapter 26: Sparks of Rebellion
Chapter 26: Sparks of Rebellion
Jack's Perspective
The growing city of Solara Prime thrived in the glow of mana-powered lights, and the hum of automated systems filled the air. Yet, Jack could sense the tension rippling beneath the surface. Progress had come at a cost—not everyone was willing to let go of the old ways.
"Eve," Jack said, standing in the Command Tower's observation room. "Give me an update on Varik's group."
Eve's holographic form flickered into view, calm and precise. "Surveillance drones have identified three camps established by Varik's faction. Current estimated strength: 500 individuals. They are stockpiling weapons and coordinating with other dissatisfied groups in outlying territories."
Jack's gaze hardened as he studied the holographic map of the Imperium. The camps were marked in red, each situated near supply lines and key resource hubs. Varik wasn't just protesting—he was preparing for war.
"Unit 01," Jack said, turning to his trusted second-in-command, "mobilize reconnaissance teams and RPC-01 units to the border regions. Keep them hidden for now. I want to know everything about Varik's movements before we act."
Unit 01 nodded. "Understood, Commander. Deployment will begin immediately."
Life at the Edge
In one of the outlying towns near the rebellion's territory, Mira, a merchant who had fled the Altherian wars, stood in her small shop, organizing newly delivered goods. The automated delivery drone that had brought them hummed as it departed.
The Imperium had brought her safety, prosperity, and opportunity—things she'd thought she'd lost forever. But whispers of rebellion were spreading, and she couldn't ignore them.
A young man, Joran, stepped into her shop, his expression grim. "Mira, have you heard? Varik's people are getting stronger. They say they're going to take back the land from the machines."
Mira frowned. "Take back the land? For what? Starvation? Bandits? Those machines saved us, Joran. Without them, we wouldn't have made it through the last winter."
Joran shifted uncomfortably. "Not everyone feels that way. They think the machines are taking our humanity."
"Progress isn't easy," Mira said firmly. "But it's better than the chaos we had before."
Joran sighed, his gaze distant. "Maybe. But if they start fighting, we'll all be caught in the middle."
The Rebel Camps
At one of the rebel camps deep in the northern forests, Varik stood before his followers, rallying them with fiery words.
"They call it progress," Varik spat, pacing before the gathered crowd. "But what is it really? Machines that take our jobs. Lights that replace our fire. And a ruler who doesn't care about us—only his machines."
The crowd murmured in agreement, their faces a mix of anger and fear.
"We will not be slaves to his system!" Varik shouted. "We are people, not cogs in his machines. We will take back what's ours!"
A young woman in the crowd, Elia, hesitated before raising her voice. "But what if we're wrong? The machines... they've helped people, too."
Varik glared at her. "Helped? Or controlled? Don't be fooled. The Iron King doesn't care about you—he cares about power."
Jack's Counterattack
In the Command Tower, Jack studied the latest drone footage of Varik's camps. Armed rebels patrolled the perimeters, their weapons crude compared to Jack's military hardware but still dangerous in large numbers.
"Eve," Jack said, his tone cold, "how many of our supply lines are within striking distance of Varik's camps?"
"Three key supply routes are vulnerable," Eve replied. "I recommend deploying automated patrols to secure the areas."
Jack nodded. "Do it. And prepare a strike team. If Varik wants a fight, he'll get one."
The First Strike
At dawn, a convoy carrying food and medical supplies moved through the northern region. Unbeknownst to the rebels, the convoy was heavily guarded by cloaked drones and RPC-01 units hidden along the route.
As the convoy approached a narrow pass, a group of rebels sprang from the treeline, weapons drawn. They fired crude mana-bolts and arrows at the vehicles, but their assault was short-lived.
The drones uncloaked, raining down precision fire from above. RPC-01 vehicles emerged from concealed positions, their railguns tearing through the rebels' ranks. The ambush became a massacre in moments.
Varik's second-in-command, Jarek, barely escaped with a handful of survivors. As he retreated into the forest, he realized the scale of their mistake. "We can't fight this," he muttered. "Not like this."
The People's Reaction
News of the failed ambush spread quickly. In Solara Prime, citizens debated the growing rebellion.
"They brought it on themselves," one man said, watching the holographic news feed in a café. "You don't attack supply lines and expect mercy."
"But what about their concerns?" a woman countered. "Not everyone's ready for this kind of change."
In the outskirts, the news hit harder. Joran returned to Mira's shop, shaken. "Did you hear? They wiped out a whole group of rebels."
Mira nodded grimly. "I heard. Maybe now they'll think twice."
Joran hesitated. "Or maybe it'll just make things worse."
Jack's Message
After the ambush, Jack ordered a broadcast to address the rebellion directly. Standing in the Command Tower, his image was projected across the Imperium's territories.
"To the people of The Celestial Imperium," Jack began, his voice firm and unyielding, "I have heard the voices of those who resist progress. I understand your fears, but I will not tolerate violence or sabotage.
"This rebellion is not a fight for freedom—it's a refusal to move forward. Progress is inevitable. Change is necessary. And resistance is futile.
"To those who oppose me: Lay down your arms, and you will be granted amnesty. Continue your defiance, and you will be met with overwhelming force. The choice is yours."
As the broadcast ended, Jack turned to Eve. "Send drones to drop leaflets over the rebel camps. Make sure they get the message."
End of Chapter 26
"Welcome, citizens and allies of the Celestial Imperium! Your unwavering support fuels our rise and strengthens our resolve as we march toward a brighter future. You are not just readers—you are part of this journey, a cornerstone of our empire, and your actions help shape this world.
If you believe in the vision of the Imperium, here's how you can play your part:
1. Save the story to your library or collection to remain updated as we conquer new chapters and face the unknown.
2. Spread the word by sharing this story with your friends, comrades, or allies—help us grow the ranks of the Imperium!
3. Engage and rally in the comments. Your thoughts and encouragement echo like a battle cry across the battlefield, energizing this tale.
Together, we will expand this world and its mysteries!
Remember, you are part of something greater. Each step you take—each library save, each recommendation—helps the Imperium grow stronger, ensuring Jack and his allies can achieve their ultimate goal. Thank you for standing with us in this grand endeavor!"