stakes - gambling with gods.

As we approached the designated officer in charge of the base near the village, I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity. It was the same officer I had encountered when I first arrived at the lieutenant's place. He stood tall and composed, saluting me with respect as we made our way towards him.

We ascended to the highest point of the base, where the officer pointed out the various structures and explained their significance. From this vantage point, I could see the layout of the base, the defensive fortifications, and the strategic positioning of different units.

The base near the village had a well-organized and functional layout designed for both defence and operation efficiency. The overall structure was composed of a series of interconnected buildings, tents, and defensive fortifications.

The main building, serving as the central command center, stood prominently at the heart of the base. It was a sturdy structure made of reinforced materials, with multiple floors and a commanding view of the surroundings. Inside, it housed various offices, meeting rooms, and communication equipment, allowing for effective coordination and decision-making.

Radiating out from the main building were several other structures, each serving a specific purpose. There were barracks for the soldiers, providing them with living quarters and areas for rest and relaxation. These barracks were strategically placed to ensure easy access to important areas of the base.

Surrounding the main buildings and facilities were fortified walls and defensive fortifications. These structures were constructed with defensive purposes in mind, providing protection against potential threats. Guard towers were strategically positioned along the walls, offering clear vantage points for surveillance and monitoring the perimeter.

In addition to the physical structures, the base also had designated storage areas for supplies, armaments, and provisions. These storage facilities were crucial for maintaining the platoon's readiness and ensuring a steady supply of necessary resources.

"Can you tell me the class composition of our platoon?" I asked the guard, still overlooking the base.

"Yes, sir. This document contains everything you need," he replied, handing me a thick file and taking a step back.

As I flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but wonder aloud, "Can't we use technology for this kind of thing? It would be much more efficient."

The guard's smile wavered slightly as he responded, "No, sir. As with teleportation, the empire restricts the use of digital devices outside specific areas. You were already an exception, and it would cost way too much for even just one."

Curiosity piqued, I pressed further, "But why? Surely there must be a reason behind such strict regulations."

"It's all about training, sir," he explained. "Higher-ranked beasts have heightened senses and can detect radio signals and fluctuations in space. By limiting our reliance on technology, the empire ensures that we develop our skills and instincts without becoming overly dependent on devices. We can't even use nork outside a metropolis-level settlement, the moment the slightest radio signals are emitted, thousands of uncommon beasts will be alerted and start attacking. It's too dangerous to rely on any modern tech in such areas."

"I understand that, but let's not forget that encountering a beast higher than a uncommon rank is a rarity for most of us," I remarked, contemplating the guard's statement.

The officer nodded in agreement, understanding my point. "Indeed, encountering higher-ranked beasts is rare for most of us. However, the empire's decision is based on ensuring a uniform approach to training and minimizing any potential risks. By restricting the use of digital devices and technology outside specific areas, they maintain a consistent environment for all soldiers, regardless of their assignments or the level of threat they may face."

I flipped through the document he had given me, skimming through the detailed information about the platoon's composition. It included the names, ranks, and assigned roles of each member, as well as their individual strengths and specializations. The platoon was a diverse mix of talents, combining various combat skills and expertise to form a cohesive unit.

"We have a total of 800 members in our platoon, sir," the officer informed me, "Our platoon is mainly focused on long-range combat. Among our ranks, we have 325 warriors, predominantly specializing in tanking roles. We also have 25 deck users. Within our bloodliner division, we have 50 members, many of whom have embraced the power of the werewolves' blood," he explained. "These bloodliners possess enhanced speed and agility, making them swift attackers capable of infiltrating enemy lines and dealing decisive blows."

The officer's detailed report continued, "We have a formidable group of 350 mages," he stated. "These individuals possess a wide range of magical abilities, from offensive spells that can decimate enemy forces to defensive enchantments that fortify our positions. We also have 43 skilled archers," he said.

I studied the document further, noting the distribution of ranks among the members. The platoon consisted of a mix of lower-ranked soldiers, each with their own responsibilities and areas of expertise. It was a well-balanced composition, ensuring the platoon's versatility and adaptability in different combat scenarios.

"Thank you for providing this information," I said, returning the document to the officer. "I would like to return now, as there seems to be no further tasks for me here," I expressed, a hint of resignation in my voice.

The officer nodded, understanding my desire. He beckoned the guard who had accompanied me and conveyed a message in a hushed tone. The guard acknowledged with a nod, ready to escort me back to my designated area.

After the guard graciously escorted me back to my tent, I felt a wave of exhaustion wash over me. The day's events and the wealth of information I had absorbed had taken their toll. Recognizing the need to replenish my energy, I decided to take some well-deserved rest.

"Please keep a close eye on anything suspicious while I rest," I instructed the guard. "If you come across any concerning developments or receive any information, promptly inform me."

I settled down in my tent, grateful for the temporary respite from the bustling activity outside. I reclined on my makeshift bed. I settled into a state of relaxation, allowing the weariness to seep from my bones. The silence of the tent enveloped me, and soon, I drifted into a deep and restful slumber.

==================================================================

Command centre inside the base:-

Three days later:-

Three days had passed, each one dragging on with a sense of tediousness. There was little to occupy my time, save for the occasional visit to the nearby base for sword practice. But today was different. Today, a report arrived, delivered by Emily, bearing news that would shift the tides of our stillness. The attack we had anticipated was now imminent, set to occur in a mere six hours, just before the descent of night. Armed with this critical information, I made my way to the lieutenant roger, hoping to discuss our preparations and strategies.

To my surprise, the lieutenant seemed unfazed by the urgency of the situation. Instead of taking immediate action, he directed me to the command center, where I hoped to find a sense of urgency and readiness. However, what greeted me was a scene of relaxed camaraderie and light-hearted banter among the soldiers.

My initial worries grew as I observed the lack of urgency in their demeanor. How could they be so nonchalant when a battle was imminent? Doubts crept into my mind, questioning whether I was truly prepared to lead in such circumstances.

Seeking reassurance, I approached officers, expressing my concerns about the upcoming battle. They chuckled and assured me that this was just a minor skirmish, nothing to be overly concerned about. Their confidence in the face of the impending threat began to alleviate my anxieties.

I sat there, a mix of anxiety and anticipation coursing through my veins, surrounded by fellow officers sharing their tales and experiences. Each story was unique, showcasing the diverse backgrounds and journeys that had led them to this moment. As I listened, the narratives varied in tone and content.

The officer's accounts shed light on the diverse roles and experiences within the conflict. Some shared their firsthand encounters, having stood at the forefront of the raging chaos. Their voices brimmed with adrenaline and intensity as they described the clash of weapons, the deafening roar of battle, and the visceral struggle for survival. On the other hand, there were those who recounted their experiences from different vantage points. They spoke of their roles as strategists, tacticians, or support personnel, stationed behind the scenes.

Amidst the tales of valor and hardship, there were lighter anecdotes that elicited laughter

Just as the atmosphere seemed to settle into a relaxed state, a message arrived, confirming the appearance of the enemy army on the distant horizon. The mood shifted, and a renewed sense of purpose filled the air. The soldiers, who had moments ago been joking, now turned their attention to the task at hand.

As the soldiers dispersed to their respective positions on the frontlines, I remained behind with the officer I had encountered before. It seemed that neither of us was immediately required elsewhere.

The battlefield was set, with a formidable sight before us. Around 200 soldiers, adorned in heavy armor and wielding shields in one hand, their other hands firmly gripping their respective weapons, formed a single long line, standing as the first line of defence against the approaching army of hobgoblins. There was an air of unwavering determination on their faces, as they stood resolute and unafraid. Their presence alone instilled a sense of confidence in the rest of us.