I compiled the reports and finalized my suggestions.

Jester and Old man were finishing their penal work.

My report to the allied command was almost ready when I heard radio message.

“Beril-Main, come in, this is Rapier. Over.”

“Beril-Main, hearing you loud and clear. Go ahead.”

“Understood. Status update. The food supplies are running low, batteries for radio and equipment are expended. This night we will be leaving the city.”

“Roger.”

“Next… Situation report. One of our observation teams saw that the enemy soldiers carried several crates out of the city prison. The enemy might have a stockpile there. Next, the enemy forces moved to the eastern part of the city. Enemy disposition is within the desired area. The target area is guarded by estimated force of 500 men. Enemy activity there is decreasing. And final news, the rebels were busted. Their leaders were captured, their people were hanged on every lamp post. Currently the leader are kept in that prison. We suspect they will be publically executed within 72 hours. There is a platform under construction. Looks like the enemy will try to deter the civilians.”

“Thank you for the information, Rapier.”

“You are welcome. We are still inside and we have enough ammo. Should we start a rescue operation?”

I thought for a minute. The rebels know their city better than the enemy so we might be able to use them to our advantage. Also, we already have a full squad of special forces troops inside of the city. But…

“Will it affect your retreat?” I need to make sure there will be no casualties.

“…

…

…

Yes…”

“Then abort the preparations for the rescue. We will try to solve this ourselves.”

“Understood. Going silent. Rapier over and out.”

“You two!” I called out to my boobies.

“What’s up?” Jester peeked out of the turret. His hair was dirty, his uniform also was not in the best condition. Old man stopped grubbing the engine and looked at me.

“I will go and inform the allied command. Be ready to move out!”

I entered the temporary HQ of the allied forces. All of the faces inside were familiar to me. Except for one.

A middle aged man was sitting in a chair, far from the table where the officers were discussing the siege and the strategy.

“Oh, Captain! Welcome.” The Lord Commander greeted me.

“Hello, everybody. I’ve got new information.” After the Lord Commander lifted his hand, the officers stopped talking.

I stood by the Lord Commander and started my short speech.

“The rebellion was drowned before it started. Their leaders are about to be executed.” The bustling discussion of the officers was turning into a mourning gathering. The dead silence filled the room.

“Are you sure?” The man asked.

“Yes.”

“Your Grace…?” (LC)

“Where are they kept?” The man stood up and approached me. He put his hand on my shoulder.

My legs started trembling from the pressure that was put on my shoulder.

“They are in the prison. Execution is expected to happen within 3 days.” The pressure increased and the hand started trembling.

“Anything else…? Anything… unusual?” He kept on asking but after I nodded the pressure on my shoulder was finally decreased.

“Why would you care?” I needed to confirm that the person in question should have the access to the information.

“Ah!” The man facepalmed and stepped back.

“Forgive my rudeness. Allow me to introduce myself. I am duke Valencio of Crowford, the owner of this city. Allow me to thank Milady for rescuing me from my captors.” He stood on his knee but before he could kiss my hand I pulled it away.

“I am captain of Russian Federation, Alexander Belov. Please, respect my private space and watch your actions.”

“Hu-hu… Well then, our introductions are over. Milady…” (V)

“CAPTAIN. OF. ACTIVE. MILITARY.”

“Should I call you ‘Sir’?” He giggled.

“At least this much, please.”

“Very well, ‘Sir’. Can you tell if there was anything unusual?” (V)

“The prison might be used to stockpile provision…” Valencio stopped me.

“Commander, gather the troops. I want the finest of soldiers.” (V)

The Lord Commander glanced at me and nodded.

“Khm… Captain Belov, I would like you to stay here. We will have a personal, confidential talk. Can I expect your attention?” I nodded.

“The council is to be dismissed today.” (LC)

Only three people remained in the room. Me, Duke, and Lord Commander.

“Your Grace…?” (LC)

“Do you know where from the supplies come to the city?” (V)

“No information for now.”

“I see. What I will tell you now is a state secret.” (V)