Thunderous rumbling filled the sky. Even inside his heavy steam-powered armor, Castin could still hear the incessant roar outside. The floor trembled beneath his feet as the Mammoth heavy troop carrier advanced. It was a crowning achievement of the Empire's industry, designed specifically to transport troops across all kinds of difficult terrain.
Its wheels alone stood two stories tall, and a single heavy troop carrier could transport nearly a hundred armored soldiers. Of course, that was also because they were so heavy in their steam-powered armor. Having them spend all their time marching would have been inefficient, which was why this "support service" existed, sparing them from advancing on foot like ordinary soldiers.
But that was not necessarily a good thing, because it meant they would be the first troops committed to battle, entering Derrin City as the vanguard. Castin felt his heartbeat quicken. The heavy machine gun in his hands gave him no sense of security whatsoever. The explosions and rumbling outside seemed to turn into solid hammers, pounding relentlessly at his brain and heart.
"Hey, rookie, why the long face? Scared?"
The veteran beside him noticed Castin's expression and teased him.
"Just a little nervous."
Castin glanced at the veteran. Naturally, anyone selected to become a steam-armored soldier was an outstanding fighter from their respective unit. Castin was no exception. He simply was not quite used to being completely surrounded by machinery.
"First real battle?"
Castin wanted to deny it, but he nodded instead. They were about to enter battle, and he did not want to play the hero here. "I performed very well in training."
"But training and real combat are two different things, kid. Remember that."
The veteran patted Castin as he spoke.
"That armor will only give you a false sense of security. Don't put