NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 7: Chapter 7: Strangers at the Gate
Chapter 7: Strangers at the Gate
Jack's Perspective
The base was a picture of calculated chaos. Combat drones zipped between the barracks and the Command Center, their sleek frames gleaming in the morning sun. Clones marched in perfect formation along the perimeter, their rifles slung over their shoulders as they rehearsed tactical drills. The hum of machinery in the Weapons Factory blended with the faint clank of new turrets being assembled along the outpost's walls.
Jack stood in the Command Center, a mug of nutrient-laced coffee in hand, watching the live drone feed of the northern settlement on the central console. The settlement's inhabitants moved about their routines: farmers tending fields, smiths hammering iron, and patrols of armored militia marching the streets. It all seemed peaceful on the surface, but Jack knew better.
[Recon Analysis Complete.]
Settlement Name: Greymarch Hamlet
Population: ~300 (20% Combatants)]
Defensive Capabilities: Low to Moderate (Militia Armed with Steel Weapons)]
"Greymarch Hamlet," Jack muttered. "Not exactly a threat, but not helpless either."
Unit 01 stood beside him, his expression calm but focused. "Do you anticipate hostilities, Commander?"
"Maybe," Jack said, setting down his mug. "They've got weapons, and they're organized enough to patrol. If they see us as a threat, they might try something stupid."
Unit 01 nodded. "Your orders?"
Jack hesitated. Greymarch could be an opportunity. If he played his cards right, he could establish a foothold in the region without firing a shot. But if the militia proved hostile, he needed to be ready to act.
"Send a drone to establish contact," Jack said finally. "I want to see how they react to something they've never seen before."
The Drone Encounter
The drone buzzed low over Greymarch, its sleek frame casting a long shadow across the village square. Farmers dropped their tools and stared, mouths agape, as the machine hovered in place. Militia soldiers rushed to form a defensive line, their hands tightening on the hilts of their swords and spears.
From the Command Center, Jack observed their reactions with a mix of amusement and curiosity. The village elder, a wiry man with a gray beard, stepped forward cautiously, his hands raised in a gesture of peace.
"What... what is this?" the elder stammered, his voice trembling.
The drone emitted a soft hum as it projected Jack's voice across the square. "Greetings. My name is Jack Lawson, Commander of the outpost to the south. I come in peace."
The elder blinked, clearly bewildered. "You... you're not here to harm us?"
"Not unless you give me a reason to," Jack replied evenly. "I'm offering an opportunity. Cooperation, protection, and access to resources in exchange for your allegiance."
One of the militia soldiers stepped forward, his sword drawn. "We don't need your protection, whoever you are! This is our land, and we'll defend it!"
Jack smirked, leaning against the console. "Your swords won't do much against what I have."
The elder turned and shot the soldier a sharp look. "Silence, Arlen! You'll bring trouble on us all."
Jack's voice cut through the growing murmurs. "I'm not asking for much. Just your cooperation. Think it over. I'll return for an answer soon."
With that, the drone ascended and returned to the outpost, leaving the village in stunned silence.
Back at the Outpost
Jack paced the Command Center, his mind racing. Greymarch was a small fish, but it could be a valuable stepping stone. A foothold there would give him access to local resources and a better understanding of the region's politics. But he couldn't ignore the potential for resistance.
Unit 01 entered the room, his expression unreadable. "Your thoughts, Commander?"
"Too soon to say," Jack replied. "The elder seems willing to listen, but the militia's another story. If they push back, we'll have to handle it quickly."
Unit 01 nodded. "Shall I prepare the clones for deployment?"
"Not yet," Jack said, shaking his head. "Let's see if they come to us first."
Unexpected Visitors
As night fell, the system chimed with an alert.
[Unidentified Movement Detected: Southern Gate.]
Jack moved to the perimeter, flanked by two combat drones and a squad of clones. The gate opened to reveal a small group of figures standing just outside the glowing perimeter markers. At their head was the Greymarch elder, flanked by two nervous-looking militia soldiers.
"I didn't expect you to come to me," Jack said, stepping forward with his plasma rifle slung over his shoulder.
The elder bowed slightly, his expression weary. "We've seen enough bloodshed in our time, Commander Lawson. If your words are true, then perhaps we can find common ground."
Jack studied the man carefully, noting the tension in the soldiers behind him. "You're cautious. That's good. It'll keep you alive."
The elder straightened, his eyes narrowing. "And you? You wield power we can't even begin to understand. How do we know you won't use it to crush us once we've served our purpose?"
Jack's tone hardened. "Because I don't need to crush you. I'm building something bigger than this village, elder. You can be part of it, or you can try to stand in my way. Your choice."
The elder held his gaze for a long moment before sighing. "What do you want from us?"
"Loyalty," Jack said simply. "And in return, I'll give you protection and prosperity. Your people won't have to worry about bandits or warlords ever again."
The elder exchanged a glance with the soldiers before nodding slowly. "Very well. We'll cooperate—for now."
Jack extended a hand. "Good choice."
The Forest Watches
Later that night, Jack stood on the edge of the outpost, staring into the forest. The encounter with Greymarch had gone better than expected, but the elf's warning still weighed heavily on his mind.
The system chimed softly, displaying a new notification.
[Unidentified Movement Detected: Eastern Forest.]
[Analysis: Unverified Lifeforms Approaching.]
Jack's grip tightened on his rifle. "Looks like the forest has more to say."
End of Chapter 7
"Every great journey begins with a single step. Jack's story is one of resilience, ambition, and the determination to rise above impossible odds. Right now, you're witnessing the birth of something extraordinary—a vision of unity, strength, and progress that will one day shape the entire world.
But no empire is built alone. If you believe in Jack's vision, here's how you can join the cause:
1. Save this story to your library or collection to follow every twist, challenge, and triumph as the foundations of the Imperium are laid.
2. Share this tale with friends or allies who would stand beside Jack in his quest to create a better future.
3. Engage with the story by sharing your thoughts in the comments. Your words of encouragement can inspire Jack's rise and make you part of his journey.
Together, we can make this dream a reality!
This is more than just a story—it's the beginning of an empire. Every step forward depends on those who believe in the power of progress. Thank you for joining Jack as he fights to carve a path in a chaotic world. Let's rise together and build something unforgettable!"