Three days after departing from the border base, the Divine Wind Empire's vanguard reappeared on the radar arrays of the first major enemy fortress: Iron Falcon Fortress.
From the battlements of the fortification guarding the mountain pass, sentries spotted the silhouettes of their own warships in the distance. The vessels advanced at reduced speed, maintaining the standard patrol formation and broadcasting official identification codes that Crul had replicated.
On the command bridge of the enemy flagship—now under Crul's control—Ethan observed the holographic displays while wearing the officer robes belonging to the deceased general.
"Iron Falcon Fortress in sight, Master," reported Crul mentally. "They are requesting mission confirmation and fleet status."
"Send the return code," commanded Ethan. "Tell them we secured the border base, eliminated the Golden Dragon Empire's reinforcements, and are bringing high-value prisoners requiring immediate processing at the central node."
