On the High Seas

Out over the high seas.

The blue sky held barely a wisp of cloud. Dazzling sunlight poured down, and the ocean and sky were equally clear and bright, with excellent visibility.

A vast steam fleet forged ahead at tremendous speed, its bristling cannons making it look like a swarm of hedgehogs.

"According to plan, we'll reach Yaliwen Naval Port by this evening at the latest and officially join the operation to strike into the heart of the Rebel army!"

Aboard the largest flagship, the Admiral was having lunch with a group of his subordinates in the reception room.

The Empire's military hierarchy was strict. The lowest rank among those dining with him was Major General, and their buttons and insignia gleamed.

Beneath the bright lights, the tablecloth was spotless and white. The fine ceramic tableware gave off a smooth, delicate sheen, wine swirled in the glasses, and the steaks and roast lamb filled the room with a mouthwatering aroma.

Behind every officer's seat stood an orderly dressed in a waiter's uniform, a white towel draped over his arm, ready to serve his superior at any moment.

"On the army's side, Duke Black Rose is one of the Empire's few undefeated generals. With Steel Eagle Fortress backing him, Chevrolet won't break through right away. That's our chance!"

The Admiral raised his glass. "To the Empire! Cheers!"

"To the Empire!"

The Imperial Navy officers raised their glasses in turn.

In truth, the Admiral's thinking wasn't wrong. The navy demanded exceptional technology and industrial strength. Building a warship and launching it was a major test of a nation's industrial capacity. Given the Rebel army's current resources, they might not even be able to repair the warships they'd captured!

The sea still belonged to the age of battleships and heavy guns. Against the advancing