Chapter 755 755 Discussion
A holographic projection flickered to life, showcasing a middle-aged woman, Governor Tessa.
Her image was sharp and her voice crisp as she spoke. "We've all seen the reports. The stronghold they're establishing deep in demon territory is not just a military base; it's a symbol of their reach and capability. Aldred is proving to be a strategic and powerful leader. Perhaps it's time we adjust our stance."
The room fell silent, considering her words. General Elara surveyed the gathered leaders, her gaze lingering on each face. "It's true that Aldred and his forces have exceeded our expectations. The question now is, how far are we willing to support their efforts? Are we prepared to fully back the Celestial Platoon?"N♡vεlB¡n: Transforming Moments into Memories.
Admiral Varson leaned forward, his hands clasped. "I propose a conditional increase in support. Let's monitor their progress closely, particularly with this new stronghold. If they can hold it and continue to push back the demons, then we should consider more substantial backing."
A murmur of agreement rippled around the table. The leaders recognized the potential of the Celestial Platoon but remained cautious, aware of the delicate balance of power in the galaxy and the risks of aligning too closely with a young, albeit powerful, organization.
General Elara nodded. "Very well. We'll proceed with a measured approach. But let's not forget the bigger picture - our alliance with the Celestial Platoon isn't just about defeating demons. It's about securing a future for humanity in a galaxy where we are surrounded by enemies."
As General Elara finished her measured proposition, a sudden eruption of dissent broke the previously contemplative atmosphere. Two of the planet leaders, known for their conservative views, stood up, their faces contorted in anger.
"This is preposterous!" bellowed Governor Haskel, his voice echoing in the chamber. "We're placing our faith in a group that's barely out of its infancy. There are older, more established organizations that deserve our support."
Next to him, Ambassador Yurin, a woman known for her sharp tongue, joined in. "Why gamble our resources on the Celestial Platoon when we have the option to align with the nobility of the empire? They have the experience and the resources."
At the mention of the empire's nobility, a collective grimace spread across the faces of many in the room. It was no secret that the empire's noble class was riddled with corruption and self-interest, making any alliance with them a risky proposition.
General Elara, maintaining her composure, addressed the dissenters. "Governor Haskel, Ambassador Yurin, I understand your concerns. However, aligning with the empire's nobility comes with its own set of complications. We must consider the long-term implications of such an alliance."
Admiral Varson, who had remained silent, now spoke up. "While I agree that the Celestial Platoon is a relatively new entity, their actions speak louder than the years of existence. We need allies who are not just powerful but also share our vision for the future. The established organizations you mention are powerful, yes, but their allegiances are often questionable."
Governor Haskel slammed his fist on the table, his frustration evident. "I refuse to put the fate of our people in the hands of an untested mercenary group. We need assurances, guarantees that they can deliver what they promise."
The room buzzed with whispered conversations, the leaders weighing the options and the risks involved.
Shinari acknowledged his concern with a nod. "Agreed. The additional resources will undoubtedly escalate the scale of our operations, making us a bigger target. We'll need to enhance our defenses and intelligence networks."
Aldred's eyes returned to the view outside, where the future stronghold was rapidly taking shape. "Make sure Vortimer and Salamander are aware of the increased funding. I want them to use these resources effectively. As for the attention we'll attract, let them come. We'll be ready."
Shinari made a note on her tablet, her expression determined. "I'll relay the information immediately. We'll ensure that every credit and resource is utilized to its utmost potential."
As the door closed behind Shinari, Aldred allowed himself a rare moment of respite. He walked over to a plush couch situated near a vast viewport, the panoramic expanse of space stretching out before him. With a casual snap of his fingers, two impeccably dressed maids appeared, one carrying a tray of exotic fruits, the other a crystal decanter filled with a sparkling amber liquid.
Aldred accepted a glass, the liquid casting a warm glow in the dim light of the command center. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice softer than the commander persona he often projected.
As the maids retreated, Aldred leaned back, letting out a weary sigh. His gaze drifted to the stars, twinkling against the backdrop of deep space, interspersed with the silhouettes of thousands of spacecraft that orbited the planet. The sight was both magnificent and sobering.
"What a tiring day," he said to himself, the words barely more than a whisper. He sipped his drink, the flavors rich and complex, a momentary indulgence in his relentless existence.
As he gazed out into the cosmos, Aldred pondered the duality of his nature. "I do what must be done," he mused, his thoughts trailing off. The victories were sweet, but the weight of command, the lives lost, the decisions made, all bore heavily upon him.
In this vast universe, he often felt like a small cog in an immense machine, yet he knew his actions rippled far and wide. The responsibility was immense, the path often lonely. He was a beacon for some, a harbinger of doom for others.
Aldred's hand tightened around his glass, a silent acknowledgment of the burden he bore. He knew that the path ahead was fraught with challenges, but he was resolute.
His wives were waiting for him after all.
The stars seemed to shimmer in response to his thoughts, a cosmic dance of light and shadow. In that moment, Aldred felt a profound connection to the universe, a sense of being part of something far greater than himself. It was a fleeting feeling, but it filled him with a quiet resolve.
As he finished his drink, setting the glass down with a soft clink, Aldred stood up, his moment of introspection giving way to the leader he needed to be.
There were battles to fight, a future to forge, and he was at the heart of it all.
