Trap

This would be the most challenging and dangerous operation since the Cecil Legion was formed.

Yet before the operation succeeded, before the secret behind it could be revealed, most of those involved would never know the truth.

Mortals would attempt to hunt a god—though it was merely an artificially created false god, and though the most critical step would be carried out by a powerful ally, the nature of this operation was still shocking beyond measure. In a world where religion was everywhere and acts of faith were commonplace, ordinary people would never dare imagine such a thing. Even the powerful and highly organized Cecil Legion might suffer shaken morale and diminished combat effectiveness if faced with these truths before the operation began.

Most soldiers would know only the orders issued by their superiors. Even many middle- and lower-ranking commanders would know only the portion for which they were responsible. The only ones who truly knew what they were about to face were the army's highest commanders, the Administrative Hall's senior officials, and those who had devised the entire plan.

Iron Throne commander Maryland stood in the tactical compartment of the Armored Train. Through shielded windows, he saw soldiers bustling across the armed platform and throughout the defensive line, vehicles transporting ammunition, and armored vehicles heading for every node of the defense. Behind it all, the gloomy sky hung low around the land. In the distance, scorched walls and towers stood silently upon the plain. Everything felt heavy and oppressive, as though foretelling the arrival of a storm.

An adjutant in a black officer's uniform entered the tactical compartment, saluted Knight Maryland, and said loudly, "General, all units are deployed, the railway inspection is complete, and all crews are operating normally!"

Maryland emerged from his thoughts and nodded. "Very good—where