Counterfeit Hero

"A few days ago, the Leray Federation Military Intelligence Bureau received an envoy from the largest anti-government resistance organization in the Gazalin Empire, the ’Freedom Front.’ As we all know, this organization is comprised of so-called lower-class citizens in the Gazalin Empire who have organized themselves to overthrow the Royal Family. They have already initiated several uprisings within the Gazalin Empire and are very active."

Ann Lei paused for a moment and continued, "Actually, the Federation has been providing some military aid to this organization for the past few years. This is a minor tactic used by the military to hinder the Gazalin Empire’s military expansion. However, since the members of this organization are from the discriminated minorities within the Gazalin Empire, and the restrictions placed on these minorities prevent them from becoming high-ranking officers, we have never known who their leader is. We only know that he holds a high reputation within the military hierarchy, which is almost unimaginable. No well-respected general would lead people from other ethnicities to overthrow their own nation’s rule."

There was another uproar. Anyone with a bit of logical thinking could connect the dots and conclude that this leader must be Russell, the so-called foremost military genius in the Gazalin Empire. But he’s a Vibo person, holding an unparalleled status in the Gazalin Empire’s military. What on earth is he thinking?

Ann Lei waited for everyone to calm down before continuing, "Their envoy delivered a message stating that as the Federation deciphered Russell’s intentions regarding the Katos Canyon recently, they believe that there is a general within the Federation Army with enough military acumen to coordinate with their actions. Therefore, the mysterious Freedom Front leader will create an opportunity in a major battle for the Federation Army. Whether or not they can seize it depends on the Federation Army’s capabilities."

Colonel Pat, the director of the 6th Research Room, couldn’t help but ask, "Is the upcoming Jialuo Mountain battle the opportunity they mentioned?"

Ann Lei hesitated for a moment, looked at Tian Xingjian, and replied, "If we consider Lieutenant Tian’s analysis from a moment ago, I can’t think of any other reason to explain why Russell would take such risky actions. Furthermore, the signs are quite clear."

Colonel Pat pressed on, "What if we can’t discern their intentions?"

Ann Lei replied, "We have no choice. The envoy said their leader is their only hope and must not be exposed; no incriminating evidence can exist in this plan. Therefore, this opportunity is for us to grasp on our own. If we lack sufficient military analysis capability, we wouldn’t be able to become suitable partners for their leader. In such a situation, their leader would mercilessly destroy us from a purely military perspective."

Colonel Kadur, the director of the 4th Research Room, also lost patience and urgently asked, "What benefits does Russell gain from doing this?"

This question hit the crucial point. Ann Lei nodded, smiling slightly, "The Gazalin Empire is a militaristic nation. In conflicts with any neighboring country, they have scarcely faced an opponent that posed a complete threat. The only adversary is the Leray Federation. The Federation surpasses the Gazalin Empire in both technology and economic strength. Though their combat experience is lacking, and their military might may seem inferior to the Gazalin Empire, this disparity only requires time to address. According to our analysis, this will be the only chance for Russell or that mysterious leader. He needs a formidable opponent to exhaust the Gazalin Empire’s military strength. Moreover, many warriors from the Freedom Front are embedded within the military; they need a reason to stay hidden and evade military control. Lieutenant Tian’s analysis fits these conditions well. I believe this battle is the best opportunity for the Freedom Front."