Once the effects of the specially designed flash missiles faded from the battlefield, the optical sensors returned to normal, and the view of space was properly displayed on the screens again.
Felix observed the situation on his screen. The Mobius units of the Earth Alliance Forces were no longer visible in the combat zone.
However, the laser radar and optoelectronic detection systems equipped on the MS could still track the enemy's movements ahead. The integrated system displayed the enemy's distance and position in real time.
"They retreated surprisingly fast!"
Felix's lips curved into a slight smile as he spoke, his tone neither mocking nor praising. Just as he finished, a voice came through the comms.
"Captain, the Earth Alliance Forces have retreated far away. Should we pursue?"
"No pursuit! Our mission is defense, not offense. Breaking away from our defensive line to chase the enemy could leave it vulnerable. If the enemy is using a diversion tactic, our defense would be at risk."
Shaking his head, Felix rejected the pursuit proposal.
He continued, "Strengthen the defensive line. Ensure it remains secure and prevent the enemy from exploiting any weaknesses."
"Yes, Captain!"
After hearing the response over the comms, Felix ended the communication. He piloted the Dawn and turned back toward the Alighieri.
Upon returning to the ship, Felix exited the Dawn's cockpit and headed straight for the locker room. After removing his combat suit, he returned to his quarters.
He changed into regular clothes, sat down in a chair, and placed a call to the Defense Department.
"Connect me to the Chairman!"
Once the call went through, Felix made his request.
The person on the other end acknowledged and transferred the call.
A few seconds later, the connection was successful, and Patrick's face appeared on the screen. Seeing the Chairman, Felix saluted.
"Chairman!"
"Hmm."
Patrick nodded and asked over the comms, "Has the battle ended?"
"It has ended."
Felix nodded slightly as he replied.
Hearing this, Patrick inquired, "What was the outcome?"
"We achieved some success, but the Earth Alliance Forces have become more cunning than before. They've also upgraded their equipment, now equipped with flash missiles that can be used in space. The use of these missiles allowed them to escape and preserve their strength."
Looking at Patrick, Felix explained the situation.
After listening, Patrick thought for a moment and asked, "How effective are these flash missiles?"
"Extremely effective. The brightness of the light they produce can instantly blind optical sensors and optoelectronic detection systems, rendering them useless."
Under questioning, Felix gave a highly positive assessment of the flash missiles. With this firsthand evaluation, Patrick began to form his own plans.
He looked up at Felix, nodded, and said, "I understand."
After those four brief words, Patrick ended the communication with Felix.
After the communication ended, Felix, sitting in his chair, contemplated the upcoming transformation of Jachin Due into a fortress.
"Some preparations need to be made in advance!"
Having resolved himself, Felix made another call summoning Phipps and Miles to his location.
A few minutes later,
Aboard the Alighieri
In Felix's room
The summoned Phipps and Miles sat opposite Felix, quietly awaiting his words.
Observing the two, Felix retrieved a stack of paper and three pens from a drawer. As they watched in confusion, Felix picked up a pen and wrote:
"The following discussion is not suitable for verbal communication. We'll communicate through writing."
Understanding instantly upon reading the message, both nodded in response. Seeing this, Felix continued writing:
"Phipps, Miles, can I trust you both?"
Reading the question, the two exchanged glances before each taking a sheet of paper and pen to write their responses:
"Captain, if you hadn't saved me during the Yggdrasil Defense War, I might have died there. You're my savior, and this debt is beyond repayment. As long as it doesn't harm PLANT's interests, I would even die for you!"
"Captain, if you hadn't come to my aid during the Victoria Space Port Battle, I might not have survived. You saved my life. As long as it doesn't compromise PLANT's interests, I'll do whatever you say!"
After writing, they slid their papers toward Felix, who quickly scanned the contents.
Having read them, Felix wrote:
"Don't worry, I would never ask you to do anything that harms PLANT's interests."
This brief statement eased their inner conflicts, and with renewed determination, they awaited Felix's instructions.
Observing their expressions, Felix continued writing:
"I have a premonition! That the higher-ups might convert Jachin Due into a defensive fortress for PLANT's security. When that happens, they'll surely reinforce it with more troops. I plan to recommend you both for garrison duty at Jachin Due then."
Reading Felix's words, both felt momentarily confused. The captain's message didn't seem connected to his earlier question!
Though perplexity grew within them, they calmly nodded in agreement.
Noticing their nods while also seeing the confusion in their eyes, Felix wrote:
"Some things cannot be explained yet! Just know that I would never harm PLANT's interests. The rest will have to wait until I contact you again."
Pausing briefly, he added:
"Of course, you may keep this doubt in your hearts, but time will eventually resolve it."
After writing the final word, Felix set down his pen and handed the written content to the two individuals for review. After reading it, they remained silent but wrote "We believe you" on the paper.
Seeing this, Felix gathered all the written papers and fed them into the shredder in the room, completely destroying them. Once shredded, he poured water into the mixture, turning the fragments into a pulp-like substance.
"Alright, everything that needed to be said has been said. I have no further matters on my end. Do either of you have anything?" Felix said to the two after completing these actions.
The two shook their heads at Felix, stood up, saluted, and said, "No!"
After uttering these two words, they lowered their hands and exited Felix's room.
--Enjoying the story? Want more chapters? Check out my Patreon and support me for 40+ advance chapters.
Just search for "TLGod" on Patreon!"
Thanks!