Attack

When Su Ming arrived at the command post, he looked around but did not find Zijin's familiar figure.

"Oh, she went to Dragon Court to oversee the rear coordination work," Katharine told him. "The coordination work with the dragons is quite complicated too, Zijin said that the three of us don't need to all be crammed on the front lines."

Although there was some truth to it, Su Ming still felt that Zijin seemed to be doing it on purpose.

This doesn't seem like something Zijin would do.

"The Dragon Claw Regiment has set off from Silver Moon Forest and will arrive here tomorrow to rest," Katharine reported. "This means we can launch our attack the day after tomorrow."

Su Ming nodded.

He didn't even discuss the idea of taking the initiative and striking first against the goblins with Katharine, nor did he communicate with the dragon elders.

But everyone reacted with an attitude of taking it for granted, as if it were only natural!

"Our primary tactical objective is to crush the goblin's main offensive force," Su Ming said, "And then take advantage of the situation to capture several of their forward strongholds and cities, spreading the war beyond the East of the Ridge region."

"We have problems with logistical support," Younier reported with a worried expression. "The vast majority of our existing transport capacity is occupied by the task of transporting supplies from the rear to the front lines, and this burden alone is extremely heavy."

Su Ming quickly calculated in his mind. In this operation, the Dragon Claw Regiment, which was responsible for the main attack, and the Dragon Scale Corps, which was responsible for support, plus the hundreds of giant dragons performing auxiliary tasks, would require an astonishing five thousand tons of basic supplies every day just from the consumption of these more than a thousand giant dragons on the front line!

Dragons are such a powerful unit, they can really eat a lot!

In the event of a siege, the additional physical exertion would lead to even greater food consumption, not to mention the additional consumption of weapons and ammunition. This level of demand would be disastrous for the current transportation system.

"It can be solved," Katharine said confidently. She unfolded a map and pointed to several locations marked as goblin supply depots. "To support their offensive, the goblins have also stockpiled a large amount of supplies near the front lines. We can seize these supply points."

"That's right!" Younier clapped her hands in sudden realization, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "We can eat the goblins' food; we can use their explosives as bombs! These are readily available supplies!"

"Hmm—" a deep voice interjected, "For the sake of the bigger picture, we can lower the standards a bit when it comes to food."

The speaker was Can Xin, an elder of the Gold Dragon Race. Su Ming looked up and saw his massive head slightly lowered, golden scales shimmering in the light.

He reached out and patted the scales on Can Xin's legs, which were as solid as rock—he could only reach the legs at this height himself. "Then the dragons will have to make do for a bit!"

"The grains and dried meat that goblins eat are clearly much better than the tubers that Dragon Race eat, right?" Younier pouted and muttered in a voice only Katharine could hear, "I think Elder Can Xin was practically drooling all over your map when he was talking just now."

Katharine couldn't help but chuckle, nudging Younier lightly with her elbow and saying in a low voice, "Seeing through it but not saying it, let's save face for the elder."

"In that case," Su Ming's smile faded, his tone turning serious. He pointed to the supply depots that were about to become targets, "We'll have to be extra careful with our methods when attacking these places. Things like incendiary bombs and weapons of mass destruction can't be used."

This represents an additional tactical investment, along with the accompanying risks and difficulties.

"It's worth the extra effort and sacrifices for these supplies," Katharine said earnestly. "Being able to replenish some supplies locally will greatly reduce the pressure on logistics, and our combat sustainability and efficiency will improve—it's a worthwhile trade-off!"

****

The topic then returns to the transportation issue itself.

Even if they targeted the enemy's supply depots, there were still countless supplies that needed to be continuously transported to the front lines.

Katharine traced the winding mountain range on the map with her fingertips, her brow furrowing slightly. "The roads in the East of the Ridge part of the region are rugged; your electric transport vehicles are probably not suitable for this."

Roads can be built, but it will take time, and that's only a small part of the problem. Once deep into Gray Ridge, these electric vehicles at Ruby Base will be completely out of the reach of charging stations and maintenance depots.

Therefore, supply lines after crossing borders cannot rely on electric transport vehicles.

"There's a more adaptable internal combustion engine locomotive, that's the technological route," Su Ming pondered. "But establishing the corresponding fuel supply chain and maintenance system will require time and effort. Our current experience is too limited; we can't afford to wait for this battle."

"How is the reorganization of the alien auxiliary forces progressing?" Katharine asked Younier.

Dragon Valley is home to millions of alien creatures, and this war requires them to undertake auxiliary tasks—from transporting supplies and building roads to setting up frontline camps, all of which rely on their strength.

Younier quickly replied, "Currently, we have organized about 20,000 people, mostly humans, with the remainder being dwarves and halflings, and a small number of orcs."

Goblins make up nearly 30% of the alien inhabitants. However, the target of this attack is the goblin Gray Ridge Kingdom, and for safety and management reasons, the Goblin Clan have not been included in the support team.

"Only this many?" Katharine was somewhat surprised. In any large-scale battle, the logistics and support teams should be overwhelming and continuous.

"The main limitation is the number of livestock," Younier explained. "Currently, only 2,500 pack animals have been requisitioned, so we naturally can't recruit more manpower to match them."

"Continue to expand!" Katharine calculated, "The number of people and livestock needs to at least double to barely break even—"

"No need." Su Ming suddenly raised his hand to interrupt, pointing his finger at the goblin army's assembly point on the map. "Aren't there tons of goblins here who can do the hard labor, and livestock for transport?"

Younier's eyes suddenly lit up. "That's right! We can totally steal those Kodo Beast from the goblin transport team! Capture more prisoners, and all the problems will be solved!"

The enemy army itself is a massive resource of manpower. The logistical support the goblins would require is staggering. Instead of racking their brains to cobble things together, it's better to "borrow" directly from the enemy!

"That's a good idea!" Katharine smiled approvingly. "It seems we need to redesign our battle plan."

If the objective is to seize goblin resources and personnel, then the battle plan must be adjusted accordingly. For example, while launching a frontal assault, it is necessary to flank and cut off key transportation nodes.

"Let's go to the operations room," Su Ming said.

He originally intended to wage a war of pure firepower coverage, but unexpectedly, he realized that the traditional techniques of interweaving attacks were still indispensable.

However, Su Ming couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation for scenarios involving high-quality units like dragons, and for rapid and powerful infiltration.

Katharine gathered several operations staff officers and officers, and together they headed towards the command post.

"Guild Master," an advisor said cautiously, "Given the goblins' cunning nature, knowing that a direct confrontation is a dead end, they continue to reinforce their troops; they must have some ulterior motive."

"As expected." Su Ming continued walking, his tone calm. "The Goblin Dragon-Breaking Cone failed in its first battle. Given their style, they should resort to some underhanded tactics."

"The goblins don't have many possible actions," Katharine interjected. "We can analyze it carefully."

Su Ming felt a dull ache in his temples again.

"Come on," he said with a sigh as he pushed open the door to the operations room.

****

On the morning of the third day after Su Ming arrived at the front-line camp, the rallying call resounded throughout the camp.

All participating troops assembled in neat rows, and the logistics personnel had already prepared a steaming hot breakfast. Whether human soldiers or enormous dragons, everyone was quietly and quickly enjoying their meals.

The warm May sunshine pierced through the morning mist. The sunshine at this time of year was warm, but not too scorching. This was beneficial to the logistical support systems of both sides in the conflict.

With a meat pie in her mouth, Katharine fastened the button on her coat with one hand and tucked the magic book into the leather holster at her waist with the other, locking it with a click.

"Why am I the one left behind to command again, while you get to go out and play?" Su Ming asked, holding a cup of warm soy milk, her voice full of frustration.

"Guess how many assassins are lurking in the shadows, waiting for you to show yourself?" Katharine asked, raising an eyebrow.

Su Ming subconsciously shrank his neck.

Despite the targeted training that Ruixiuli and Jielusi had given him during this time, he still felt powerless in dealing with assassins.

Close-quarters combat, a life-or-death struggle, tests one's honed fundamental skills and muscle memory ingrained in one's bones. Su Ming, a latecomer to the profession, relies more on strategy and on-the-spot decision-making in battle, putting him at a clear disadvantage against assassins specializing in this area.

"But assassins will target you too!" he argued. "Aren't you a core commander as well?"

"It's simple." Katharine held up one finger. "First, in terms of identity, as the glue that holds all the forces together, your strategic value is far greater than mine." She then extended a second finger. "Second, I'm confident I can handle two Master Rank assassins simultaneously." She pointed to a third finger. "Finally, compared to your pathetic combat skills, your abilities in other areas are far too important. So, stay put in the rear!"

"----Where am I a waste!" Su Ming muttered, "My progress rate is already fast enough!"

"Assassins and bounty hunters don't care that you've only been training for less than a year," Ruixiuli said from the side. "They won't marvel at your talent; they'll only marvel at your high bounty, your excellent cost-effectiveness, and how worthwhile it is to risk everything for a quick buck!"

Su Ming sighed helplessly.

"The battlefield is ever-changing, and the situation is chaotic," Bowers said, adjusting his equipment. "Even someone far weaker than you might find an opportunity to deliver a fatal blow in the chaos."

Jielusi asked curiously, "President Su, why do you want to go to the front lines?"

"I want to see a real battlefield where otherworldly armies clash," Su Ming replied, gazing into the distance. "And see how these weapons perform in actual combat. My understanding of battlefields is far too superficial."

"Guild Master, don't you have a flying alchemical summon that can spy on the battlefield?" an advisor couldn't help but interject.

"It's still not as good as being there in person." Su Ming waved his hand, ending the topic. "Alright, I was just thinking about it; I won't take any risks."

"It's a good thing we didn't go." Bowers finished equipping himself and picked up his staff. "A life spent rolling through mountains of knives and seas of blood isn't exactly a pleasant memory."

The group walked out of the command center. The camp was bustling with activity. The mage, who was serving as an observer, rode on a huge dragon, while a large number of logistics personnel secured bundles of supplies to the dragon's broad back.

Before long, Katharine led the First Battalion of the Dragon Claw Regiment, and Bowers led the Second Battalion. The massive dragon horde soared into the sky. The shockwaves and roars from the dragons' flapping wings instantly engulfed the entire frontline camp and filled the sky.

As the two Hundred Dragon Legions began to cross the border of Gray Ridge, Su Ming looked up and saw the enormous, emerald-green body of Zhimeng carrying Zijin gracefully soaring over the camp.

Immediately afterwards, the hundred giant dragons of the Dragon Claw Regiment Third Battalion spread their wings and roared into the sky, following closely behind them.

Su Ming took out his walkie-talkie and connected with Zijin. "Hey, you flew over my head without even saying hello?" he said, displeased.

Zijin's voice came clearly, "----The wind is too strong, I can't hear you!"

"Oh? I even brought you some red raspberries." Su Ming said regretfully.

In the sky, the girl's figure leaped down from Zhimeng's back, swooping down and then lightly slowing down. In an instant, Zijin landed gracefully in front of Su Ming and reached out her hand to him.

Su Ming smiled, took out a small bag carefully wrapped in green leaves from his pocket and handed it over. It even had runes for freezing spells on it. "Can you hear me now?"

Zijin opened the small bag, and what came into view was a cluster of plump, deep red berries, which were made up of countless tiny, crystal-clear berries, shimmering with an alluring ruby-like luster in the morning light.

The girl's eyebrows instantly curved into a smile, and she picked up a skewer and popped it into her mouth, the sweet and sour juice spreading in her mouth.

"Be careful." Su Ming looked at her, his tone tinged with worry, "A Saint Rank expert like you mustn't be brought down on a battlefield of this intensity."

Su Ming wasn't too worried about the battlefield itself, but whether it was goblins or other enemies, they would stop at nothing and use any means necessary.

Gelie Lie's imposing figure descended from the sky with a thunderous roar. His enormous dragon eyes swept over Ruixiuli and Jielusi. "You two go with Zijin," he said succinctly. "I'll personally oversee things here at the camp. Su Ming will be fine."

The four looked at each other, Su Ming nodded.

Ruixiuli and Jielusi immediately went to get their belongings. Zijin ate a few more bunches of raspberries, her fingers stained with a little dark purple juice. She patted Su Ming on the shoulder, wiping her fair fingers clean, "Thanks!"

"You're welcome." Su Ming looked at the playful finger marks on his shoulder and said helplessly.

The three of them soared into the air, transforming into three streaks of light, and chased after the departing Dragon Claw Regiment Third Battalion.

As preparations were gradually completed, the flapping of wings rang out in successive waves. The remaining four battalions of the Dragon Claw Regiment...

The Fifth Battalion, along with the five battalions of the Dragon Scale Corps, carrying their observers on their backs, took off first like a dark cloud that blotted out the sun.

Looking at this massive formation, Su Ming silently hoped that these goblins would die peacefully.

****

Inside the hangar at the forward camp, maintenance personnel pushed five streamlined Rainbow Drone Type I to an open takeoff position.

With the improvement of the Ruby Base's oil production system, high-quality aviation fuel has been supplied. These drones have been equipped with more efficient aircraft engines. Furthermore, based on Su Ming's needs, the Earth Support Team has developed a larger, improved model, significantly increasing the drones' loiter time and overall energy supply capabilities.

In addition, with the assistance of a team of artificial intelligence experts, Su Ming used the accumulated flight data to train an intelligent flight mission model on the Electricity-Swallowing Beast.

Many tasks, such as area patrols and target detection, can now be accomplished by airborne intelligent systems. With stable and smooth communication with the Electricity-Swallowing Beast," drones can also perform complex operations, including takeoff and landing, with the help of remote control from the intelligent host.

"The drone is ready, Chairman!" the ground crew leader reported to Su Ming via walkie-talkie.

"Receive!"

Su Ming's gaze swept across the control interface in front of him. All the green self-test indicators were lit up, and all parameters were within the optimal range.

Thanks to the Dandelion communication network, the information delay between this location and the Electricity-Swallowing Beast deployed at the Ruby Base is only tens of milliseconds. Su Ming set the mission routes and targets for all the drones, and then authorized the drone swarm to enter fully autonomous mode.

The low hum of the engines turned into a high-pitched roar, and five Rainbow I aircraft painted with low-visibility sky camouflage accelerated and took off one after another along the makeshift runway.

The lead aircraft, number one, climbed to the predetermined airspace at 6,000 meters, and its high-power synthetic aperture radar was activated, spreading electromagnetic waves like a giant net.

On the command center screen, countless dots representing the attacking dragon forces were displayed.

The intelligent assistance system quickly identified and labeled the legion of one thousand dragons, which was divided into three flanking squads and two main attack clusters.

Inside the command center, a newly transferred communications officer, witnessing the unobstructed battlefield situation displayed on the screen, widened his eyes and instinctively exclaimed, "This—what kind of magical weapon is this!"

"The Omniscience and all-powerful eye of the battlefield, huh?" another communications officer explained to her in a serious tone.

As more drones arrived at their positions, more remote sensing devices were activated simultaneously, unleashing a torrent of information. The analysis programs on the Electricity-Swallowing Beast analyzed the data, integrated it, and sent it to the command center.

Following the main attack group, the two Final Bone Mad Machines support groups advancing from the ground, the engineering units coordinating with them to build roads and bridges, and the logistics supply units carrying out transport operations further back—their positions and statuses appeared densely on the command screen.

Two drones flew over the enemy positions, sending back high-definition battlefield images from an overhead perspective, along with intelligently generated enemy situation analysis reports.

These images, one after another, filled the dozens of screens arranged in a circle in the command center, presenting information from both sides.

"The enemy's movements—are completely visible!" The new communications officer murmured, gazing at the almost transparent battlefield, "This is... the presence of a god!"

But soon, she no longer had time to pay attention to these things.

Countless communications were initiated: coordination requests from various units, reports of sudden enemy situations, and dispatch instructions from logistics nodes flooded the command center.

The entire command center sprang into action like a sophisticated war machine, with everyone engaged in intense yet orderly work.