The devastating scene at Cape Valmora Naval Base was transmitted in real time to Watertown House's highest national security command center through satellites and drones. The scene was eerily silent, like something out of a nightmare.
Lucentia, the chairman of the National Security Council, and all the military experts and senior officers in the room sat in stunned silence.
Autreynia's Third Fleet, the strongest military force, didn't even get the chance to fight back before Robin's light-speed warship easily destroyed them. The first aircraft carrier battle group was almost completely wiped out.
It was only the second time in Autreynia's history that their military had suffered such a crushing defeat.
The first aircraft carrier battle group of the Third Fleet, equipped with the most advanced technology and weapons, had been utterly helpless in the face of Robin's warship.
Everyone in the room watched as the first aircraft carrier battle group was annihilated.
Stiles, the head of the National Security Agency, suddenly stood up, pointing angrily at Lucentia. "You're going to be responsible for this disaster!
"Look at the power of Divine Drakebane—do you truly think he's doing this alone? I'm convinced there's military support from Draconia behind him!
"Our great Autreynia isn't afraid of any enemy, not even the so-called warrior nation, Tanqueria! But now, we've tasted failure at the hands of Draconia.
"Half a century ago, we lost all our honor in that brutal battle. If we don't compromise now, it won't just be a few military bases lost—it'll be the entire country!"
Lucentia took a step forward and punched Stiles in the face. "Shut up!
"Our country is on the edge of survival! We need to fight, not give up! But you keep talking about surrendering!
"Are you trying to tell the world that our powerful Autreynia is nothing but an empty threat?
"Divine Drakebane is just a brute, and his kingdom won't tolerate him! Do you think the East can rise? What a joke!
"Our experts and sociologists have studied their so-called 'intelligent nation'. The conclusion is clear—they'll never be truly strong!
"They're too selfish, always fighting for their gain and betraying each other. They'll never fight for the greater good. They'll always sabotage anyone more powerful than themselves. That mindset alone guarantees their downfall!"
The temporary command center in Watertown House fell silent. After a moment, Stiles stood up from the floor, shaking his head helplessly.
"You only see the surface of their power. Ever since Draconia was hit hard by Autreynia, their strategy has been about deterrence and unity, not warfare.
"In my 40 years of studying international strategy, I can tell you that no force in the world can defeat Draconia's hidden strength.
"Draconians are like an iron wall—because their bloodline is the fiercest on the planet—the blood of dragons!
"If you all still believe that Autreynia's military defenses are invincible, then it's time to wake up from your dream!"
Lucentia stared blankly at the ongoing battle on the live screen. He didn't pause the war.
He and the core leaders of Autreynia weren't ready to accept defeat. They were determined to take one final gamble.
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