First Battlefield Commander! - Chapter 212
Chapter 212: Reason
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger scratched his head and said, "Hmm. I know you're amazing, but I don't agree with this matter."
Everyone turned to look at him.
Zhou Shirui nodded and said, "Colonel Liliana, even if the external justification can be disguised, the military department will never approve your proposal. Even if they do, given the current situation, it would require at least three hearings, discussions within and outside the Expeditionary Force, and a final vote to decide on the plan..."
"Of course I understand the procedures better than you, but so what? I have no interest in wasting enormous effort seeking their permission before making any decision. The military department's convoluted and useless procedures are endless—at least half of the Sixth Army's resolutions don't comply with regulations. But which Expeditionary Force has ever truly followed them? When the frontline situation is unclear and urgent decisions are needed, the Expeditionary Force has priority in handling matters." Liliana tapped the table with her hand. "So now, with Alliance traitors facing imminent execution, we need to confirm how much intelligence they've stolen and whether it's been leaked externally. This is the most reasonable approach."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger pulled out a chair and sat down. "Don't joke around, Colonel Liliana. If you're unhappy being a colonel, you can always retire honorably. Why choose this method? It won't look good for anyone. I also don't want some strange person sent from above, forcing me to retire early again."
He looked at her with unusual seriousness, making it clear he wasn't joking. "As your deputy commander, even though I've discussed some borderline private matters before, I still have to stop you. I reiterate—I disagree."
The group fell silent, their eyes shifting between the two.
Everyone knew the truth behind this so-called "most reasonable approach."
The oversight system couldn't be abolished—it ensured the military department's fairness and allowed for proper explanations to the public when necessary. However, frontline troops also needed sufficient freedom. That's why both sides adopted post-facto hearings as the primary method of investigation and oversight. But this didn't mean they were unaware of the Expeditionary Force's underlying intentions.
After all, no one was stupid.
They accepted it because they believed both sides shared the same starting point—the Expeditionary Force's resolutions were made with the Alliance's future development in mind. That's why they didn't question it.
But what about overstepping boundaries? Even a tiger's backside shouldn't be touched lightly.
If Liliana acted recklessly for someone's sake, even dragging the Alliance into it, no one would sympathize with her, forgive her, or make allowances.
Precisely because she held a high position and enjoyed great fame, such behavior would be even less tolerated. The higher-ups would undoubtedly punish her severely as a warning to others.
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger felt like he could already see the future of this matter.
Liliana remained unmoved. She crossed her legs and looked at him. "Then what? Do you have a way to get there?"
From the Alliance to Gelen—how could they get there?
Time was tight. Arranging new identities was clearly too late.
Lian Sheng and the others' student statuses from the 14th District hadn't been revoked yet. If Maxwell gave the order, they might still go through official channels. The biggest problem was their weapons and mechs—how would they handle those?
Maxwell's willingness to assist them and provide cover was probably the limit. At such a sensitive time, letting the Alliance openly enter their territory with mechs was absolutely impossible.
Crossing over a dozen border defense lines to transport a mech into Gelen's developed areas? Even more impossible.
Even if the Alliance launched a full-scale attack, mobilizing large forces for a strong assault, they wouldn't break through Gelen's super-strong defenses in the short term.
Seeing her rebuttal, Hundred Meter Flying Dagger slapped the table and stared at her like she was insane. "You're not joking, are you? You're actually serious? What possessed you?"
Liliana raised an eyebrow.
"Then how many troops do you want to send? How many sacrifices? What's the timeline?" Hundred Meter Flying Dagger demanded. "Go on, tell me—what does the Sixth Army, or I, need to prepare for you?"
Lian Sheng said, "But there's more than one way besides a strong assault. The Alliance has been avoiding open war with Gelen under current circumstances, so now isn't the time either."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger said, "Extradition? Then let's see if Gelen's people are that easy to talk to."
"Did I say anything about the Alliance making a formal request to Gelen?" Liliana pressed a finger against the table. "Zhou Shizi, I thought you were well-versed in diplomatic rhetoric. Have you gotten dumber, or more righteous?"
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger scoffed and adjusted his uniform. "I'm as upright as they come!"
Liliana said, "I've already submitted an application to the Interstellar Federation, requesting an escort to Gelen. If Maxwell truly follows Barite's demands and public opinion to execute Cornell, then the Interstellar Federation will undoubtedly send people to confirm. With Gelen's internal turmoil and the looming threat of war, bringing a rescue mech and some equipment is perfectly reasonable. Why would Gelen refuse?"
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger froze, then immediately said, "Impossible! They won't agree!"
He wasn't talking about Gelen refusing—he meant the Interstellar Federation wouldn't agree.
Those people were some of the most annoying individuals imaginable. The more something displeased others, the more they insisted on doing it. And they always fixated on the most trivial matters.
Though Cornell was a clone created by Gelen's research, he grew up in Kafa. With years of service, numerous military achievements, and even the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel, he had countless ties to the Alliance. If they weren't already causing trouble for the Alliance, why would they agree to the Alliance's request?
And at a time like this, going to Gelen with Alliance escorts? Wasn't that just asking for trouble?
The potential for mid-journey conflicts was practically guaranteed.
"Precisely because of that, they'd choose Alliance escorts. Of course, they wouldn't just pick Alliance escorts—they'd also have an independent security team. They're just bringing us into the Alliance incidentally." Liliana's tone carried a hint of mockery when speaking of them. "Though the Alliance has offended them, there are far more detestable entities out there. Like Gelen."
In terms of being detestable, Gelen was undoubtedly at the forefront of all nations. Even with hordes of contenders fiercely competing for second place, no one could ever surpass Gelen for the top spot.
They were in a league of their own, leaving everyone else in the dust!
Not to mention their controversial origins, even after officially becoming a recognized nation, their relentless plundering was enough to infuriate the Federation's old guard.
The more established and resource-rich nations despised their behavior. It was like aristocrats looking down on the nouveau riche.
Especially since many of them were pretentious types.
Justice! Gelen was undermining interstellar justice!
At worst, the Alliance and the Federation merely disliked each other due to conflicting stances. But Gelen and the Federation were like fire and water—utterly incompatible. It was practically life-or-death for them.
But Gelen had always been domineering, with undeniable military strength. As long as they didn't make mistakes, they didn't need to care about these people.
Now that they were finally in decline, how could the Federation miss this opportunity?
Watching two detestable parties tear each other apart—what could be more delightful?
They might as well cheer: Go on, don't hold back!
Lian Sheng chuckled and said, "After all, it's people who make the decisions. And people's emotions can be manipulated."
Liliana adjusted her cap. "Recently, Gelen has done many things to displease them. Like sending threatening letters, bluntly confronting them, and refusing to cooperate."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger: "..."
Why would Gelen have the time for such things now?
Maxwell's position was unstable—he wouldn't want to clash with the Federation. Barite wanted to kill Cornell for revenge—he certainly wouldn't provoke the Federation either.
Liliana: "And Gelen's barbaric civilians have been openly mocking the Federation online, questioning its very legitimacy."
Everyone: "..."
They were really going all out, huh?
Liliana said, "This is a mutually beneficial arrangement. Anyway, I've already negotiated with them. You all should prepare."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger grinned. "Wow, Colonel Liliana, not bad."
But Liliana didn't relax at his teasing. On the contrary, her entire demeanor made it clear she was in a worse mood.
"I'm not trying to save Cornell. He has nothing to do with me. I've never met him, never understood him, and certainly never worked with him. From a third-party perspective, I might sympathize with him. But from the Alliance's founding to its development, there have been too many people deserving of sympathy." Liliana's gaze swept over everyone. "It's not a bad thing for soldiers to value loyalty. Only a united team can grow stronger. Since you've chosen to follow me, I want to take responsibility for you. But while I don't dislike brave people, I despise foolish ones."
The group stood frozen, not daring to move, their eyes fixed straight ahead in solemn attention.
"For the Alliance, this is an action where the gains don't outweigh the losses. The Alliance won't suffer because of it." Liliana stood up. "The only thing you can take is Ji Ban's personal mech. I'll equip each of you with gear—explosives, escape equipment, communication devices, anti-jamming, and shielding equipment. You're going with the Federation team, so there are still only eight of you. But all the Sixth Army's data analysts will support you. Understood?"
The group replied, "Understood!"
Liliana waved her hand. "Go prepare. You don't have much time. And I don't want a repeat of withholding information."
The group: "Yes!"
Lian Sheng and the others scattered, returning to their respective posts to prepare.
The communicator on Liliana's chest kept beeping. She took it out, glanced at the name, and replied with two words.
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger paused on his way out and smirked. "See? Retribution comes quickly."
Liliana snorted. "You should worry more about yourself. I highly doubt how much longer you'll last in the military department."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger shrugged. "The shorter, the better. That means I can go back and enjoy life. Being in the military department is anything but comfortable."
Liliana ignored him and strode down the hallway toward the administrative building at the base's core.
Major General Leiming sat behind his desk. When Liliana entered, he pushed aside the items in front of him and said, "You're back, yet you didn't report to me first. What were you doing elsewhere?"
Liliana said, "Checking on my soldiers."
"Just now, I received feedback from the Interstellar Federation regarding an application with your signature. I thought you'd come explain first." Major General Leiming interlaced his fingers and rested them on the desk. "You halted your work and rushed back overnight. I'd like to hear your reasoning."
Liliana's eyebrow twitched. At this moment, she undoubtedly wanted to curse at her elder.
"I understand young people. If we don't save Cornell this time, the Alliance might lose eight excellent soldiers—maybe even more." Liliana said, "Major General Leiming, I believe you understand. Cultivating a general isn't just about combat achievements."
"Enough. Since you've already warned your soldiers, you should know what I'm about to say." Major General Leiming pulled out a stack of paper from under his desk. "You were my student. But how many years has it been since you graduated? Eighteen? Then start with 20,000 words of self-criticism per person. Since there are eight soldiers, you might as well round it up to 180,000 words... Oh, and write Zhou Shiren's self-criticism too, to make it even."
"..." Liliana. "..."
Major General Leiming leaned back in his chair. "I can suppress this for now, but don't disappoint me."
Liliana saluted. "Yes, Major General."
Lian Sheng and the others were notified three days later to board the ship bound for Gelen.
During the preparation period, they hadn't felt nervous. But when the moment finally arrived, their thoughts turned only to what came after. It felt like they'd already let go.
The group discussed getting drinks together after returning to the Alliance. It had been so long since they'd had alcohol—some of them had never even been drunk before.
They hadn't seen their Alliance University classmates in ages—who knew where they were now? If they could meet up, it'd be great to share a meal.
And the recruits from other regiments—they could spar again.
Their mech piloting skills still had room for improvement, so they could practice. Oh, and they should start fighting for the right to their own dedicated mechs.
They missed Sanyao and their alma mater. Maybe they could take leave and visit the Second District.
It felt like there were so many things to do, yet none of them seemed particularly important.
As long as they were together, that was enough.
The group donned their gear, checked their bags and equipment, and after confirming everything was in order, followed the military vehicle to the rendezvous point.
The Interstellar Federation team arrived in their own aircraft. To board, they first had to remove their equipment and undergo security checks.
They were inspected layer by layer like criminals, subjected to pat-downs. Then all their gear and mechs underwent secondary examination and disassembly. Only after everything was confirmed safe were they allowed on board.
The entire process took nearly two hours.
The young people waited quietly nearby, showing no signs of impatience on their faces.
Once permitted, they walked into the cabin wearing only their thin inner garments.
The front of the cabin seated the Federation officials, followed by their security team. Lian Sheng's group was placed at the very back.
Thanks to Hundred Meter Flying Dagger's endless complaints, even though they'd never interacted with these people before, the image of them as stubborn, hypocritical, and sanctimonious was already firmly ingrained in everyone's minds—impossible to shake off.
It had to be said that Hundred Meter Flying Dagger's brainwashing skills were truly top-notch.
They'd have to spend several days together, but it was fine. With soundproofing and shielding activated, they could ignore each other.
While the people upfront engaged in lofty discussions, the group huddled in the back playing with their optical computers. Time passed quickly.
Two days after takeoff, whether out of sheer boredom or genuine curiosity about the Alliance's young soldiers—perhaps wanting to see if their worldviews aligned—the officials put on kindly expressions and came to chat with them.
The group had no choice but to set aside their activities and gather closer to listen.
A middle-aged man looked at them and said, "I didn't expect the Alliance to send such young soldiers. Have you graduated from university yet?"
Lian Sheng: "Of course, sir. Rest assured, our skills are passable."
The man said, "We were just discussing the Alliance's future development. Look at Gelen—what a terrible example. It seems education is the only thing that can change a nation."
Another nodded in agreement, shaking his head in dismay. "What's even more unbelievable is that they'd conduct cloning research. What a barbaric nation—do they have no basic sense of ethics?"
"When Edwin founded Gelen, his accomplishments were truly astonishing, his talent awe-inspiring. More importantly, he knew how to maintain the image of a civilized man. It's a shame his successors didn't inherit his wisdom. Look at Gelen's recent development. And look at what his clone has done. Unbelievable. If he could, Edwin would probably rise from the grave in fury."
The group felt displeased by their remarks. They wanted to retort that Cornell wasn't "Edwin's clone"—couldn't they even remember a name? Wasn't that basic respect?
Of course they wouldn't—because this trip was to execute Cornell. Why bother remembering the name of such a "person"?
Lian Sheng said, "I think... illiterates couldn't accomplish cloning research. It takes educated people to do that."
The officials fell silent, all turning to look at her.
Lian Sheng smiled. "Isn't that so? We have an old saying: 'Scholars use culture to disrupt laws; warriors use force to violate prohibitions.'"
They weren't well-versed in ancient texts, so the phrase sounded convoluted. They nodded vaguely.
Lian Sheng continued, "A clever villain is far less terrifying than an educated one."
One of them laughed. "You're right."
The man smiled. "But education can make some people recognize their mistakes and guide more onto the right path. It's their chance to change their lives."
Lian Sheng nodded. "You're wrong again. When people make mistakes, most don't think they're wrong. They revel in their perceived wisdom, proud of their cleverness. But in truth, half their pride comes from luck—a skill called 'being born right.' It's not that they don't work hard, but some don't even get the chance to try."
The officials frowned, sensing something off but unsure if she was insulting them.
Lian Sheng went on, "Just like Gelen's people. They use their military might to crush smaller nations without remorse, plundering their resources and gloating over it. How can we expect to awaken their conscience?"
The group nodded in agreement.
The man crossed his legs and faced them. "Do you understand why we're executing the clone? Many might think it too cruel, but this absolutely cannot be allowed to exist."
No one answered. The atmosphere had chilled considerably. Finally, Lian Sheng calmly replied, "I understand."
The man said, "Oh?"
Lian Sheng said, "Because of humanity's inherent flaws."
The man studied her face, trying to decipher her meaning. Lian Sheng tilted her head and smiled. "I wasn't clear enough—because we can't blindly indulge humanity's flaws."
The man pondered this, then repeated, "You're right."
"Though it's cruel and inhumane, from the perspective of human development, there's absolute justification." The man rested a hand on his knee and sighed. "Because there will always be those who yearn for someone gone. And cloning caters perfectly to their desires."
He looked at Lian Sheng. "Have you ever missed someone so much you'd do anything to see them again? At some point, haven't you had such thoughts? Wanting to possess someone, to see them once more."
Lian Sheng's fingers twitched. "Yes."
"Exactly. Everyone has. If they had the money, many wouldn't resist the temptation. But even two clones are different. This world has never had two identical people. Their environment, societal changes, genetic expression, egg cell influence, embryonic development... all shape personality. Life is miraculous—how could two identical people exist? They merely look alike. To so easily transfer love to another—is that truly love, or just obsession?"
"From the moment of creation, clones are deprived of certain rights. Before they even know it, half their lives are decided—by whoever created them. This is also unfair to clones. They... might not have done wrong, but not everyone is fortunate. We can't grant them rights, nor should we profane life. So executing clones isn't fundamentally about discrimination—it's that we have no kinder choice."
The group's eyelids twitched, their expressions darkening.
There was no denying it—this was true.
If their lives were unfair from birth, then what was their purpose? To satisfy someone else's consolation? How cruel.
Though they hated equating Cornell with an object, they had to admit his life was mostly tragic. He wouldn't even get a proper ending.
So if they wanted to prevent such tragedies, the current approach was the most appropriate.
The man sighed. "Moreover, clones can't reproduce—their genes are likely defective. Take Edwin—he was a genius, his perfect genes enough to drive anyone mad. But if his genes entered human history unnaturally, it would only lead humanity to extinction."
The officials found the Alliance students interesting—or perhaps were intrigued by these recruits' perspectives.
They were no longer young, but they'd been young once.
Youth was always emotional, disdainful of societal compromises, viewing everything through an idealistic lens. Unafraid of conflict, failure, or mistakes. Endlessly courageous, feeling life stretched endlessly ahead.
After enough falls, they realized compromise led more easily to success and smoother paths forward. Everyone hated failure, everyone hated falling behind. They grew envious of those who compromised first, then admiring, until finally becoming one themselves.
Even they didn't know when the change began.
The man asked, "If cloning were legal and you had the power, would you choose to revive that person?"
They could righteously say no—but when they tried, they hesitated.
Lian Sheng said, "At the lowest point, no one can guarantee what they'd do. So I don't know."
The officials were surprised.
Lian Sheng said, "But once I calmed down, I'd definitely regret it."
They all stared at her. Undoubtedly, they found her way of thinking unlike any young person's.
"Why?"
Lian Sheng said, "Because if you can't bear to lose someone, they're irreplaceable."
They wouldn't share the same memories, the same past. The departed wouldn't return—that's why life was precious.
They arrived in Gelen's Third District at noon.
One of Gelen's prosperous zones.
The officials disembarked, donned their hats, and said, "Good luck. It seems we part here."
Lian Sheng nodded. "Thank you."
They exited the cabin and went to the rear storage to retrieve their gear, putting on their bulletproof vests and adjusting their equipment.
Lu Mingyuan had already rented a vehicle in Gelen, now parked outside the airport. Zhao Zhuoluo and Cheng Ze helped move Ji Ban's control console.
Lian Sheng said, "Lu Mingyuan drives, Zhou Shirui navigates. Ji Ban's mech stays at the airport for emergencies, ready for rescue."
Ji Ban nodded.
His mech couldn't activate without permission. Leaving the airport would likely draw Gelen's attention. With only one mech, emergencies were manageable—but prolonged resistance wasn't an option.
Lu Mingyuan soon pulled up in the vehicle.
"Alright." Lian Sheng flicked out her weapon. "Whatever monsters lie ahead—prepare to move!"
The group opened the doors and piled into the spacious cabin.
This was their first time in Gelen. Maxwell had given them a map of Cornell's detention site. Now they headed straight for it.
As they neared the outskirts of the target area, the crowd remained dense—this was one of Gelen's developed zones, after all. But the further they went, the sparser the population became, with only occasional passersby. Likely, the Federation's arrival had prompted preemptive clearing. Nearby factories were shut down to minimize security risks from large gatherings.
Zhou Shirui activated anti-reconnaissance devices in the backseat and reconnected with Hundred Meter Flying Dagger.
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger checked the time. "You're late. We've been waiting."
Ji Ban said, "If I were driving, we'd have arrived hours ago."
Lian Sheng said flatly, "No, we'd never have made it."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger reminded them, "After extracting him, remember to blow up a building as cover."
The group replied, "Got it."
Ji Ban glanced at Zhou Shirui's map. "Are the Federation people coming this way too? Will we run into them? Should we take a detour?"
Openly snatching someone wasn't the Alliance's style—wasn't the goal to sneak him out?
"Don't overthink it. They definitely won't come here first—if at all." Lian Sheng said, "Usually, their first order of business is dining, networking, and chatting. Exchanging ideas before making decisions."
Hundred Meter Flying Dagger spun in his chair. "Exactly! But you don't have much time either. They're in vehicles—you'd better move quietly on foot."
Before getting too close, Lian Sheng had Lu Mingyuan stop.
She pointed at the map. "The area's too big, and the markings aren't detailed. Here's the plan: Zhao Zhuoluo and I will approach from the right. Cheng Ze and Fang Jianchen from the left. Ye Buqing, stay here as backup in case of emergencies. We'll strike from both sides."
More people meant higher exposure risk. Lian Sheng wasn't confident they could evade surveillance both ways.
This wasn't their turf, and the map lacked detail. They had to prepare for the worst.
Plus, the building was massive, with complex internal routes. Wasting time detouring was unavoidable, and they couldn't account for all surveillance.
The group nodded. "Got it."
Zhao Zhuoluo adjusted his grip on his gun, steadying his breathing.
Everyone watched Lian Sheng, waiting for orders. But she seemed in no hurry, still scrutinizing the map.
Stalling at the final step only bred anxiety. After holding his gun awhile, Zhao Zhuoluo set it down.
Ji Ban, sensing the tension, pulled out colorful candies from his pocket. "Don't rush. Have some candy to calm down."
Watching him, Lian Sheng suddenly remembered something. She fished out two coins. "Don't rush—let me divine first."
The candy-unwrapping halted. They thought they'd misheard. "What?!"
Lian Sheng blew on the coins solemnly.
Fang Jianchen said, "You're resorting to superstition now? Don't shake morale!"
"No, this is for peace of mind. What do you know?" Lian Sheng said. "Besides, it's accurate. I always divine before battles—whatever the result, following it at least avoids that hollow feeling. Lets you sleep soundly. It's important. Faith isn't always bad—insecurity is human nature."
Mulling it over, they found it oddly reasonable.
Lian Sheng shook the coins. "I think our past missions went poorly because we skipped this tradition. And don't scoff—I once knew someone whose divinations were always spot-on. Uncannily accurate."
She tossed the coins onto an empty seat.
Everyone held their breath, leaning in to watch the coins settle. Then they turned to Lian Sheng.
"Hmm..." She stroked her chin, brows furrowed in profound contemplation.
The group grew uneasy. Whether they believed or not, bad omens always lingered.
Zhao Zhuoluo asked cautiously, "Well?"
"I don't recognize this reading. It's my first time using these coins—I can't interpret them." Lian Sheng pinched her fingers. "I only learned... the barest basics." It wasn't her expertise anyway.
"..." The group. "..."
Their synchronized looks of disdain were palpable.
Lian Sheng grabbed her weapon. "In that case, no more overthinking. Heaven's will is heard—now we do our part. Move out!"
The group: "..."
Heard what?! Did you even understand it?!
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