Chapter 876

【 FAREWELL AND DEPARTURE 】

As he spoke, Li Mu lightly tapped the file-sharing button in front of him, and every player attending the meeting immediately received a combat manual bearing the gilded title Elven Kingdom: Great Holy War Operational Guidelines.

The players curiously opened the manual and discovered that it contained four major sections: “Offensive Operations,” “Defensive Operations,” “Behind Enemy Lines,” and “Final Assault.”

Each section was further divided into several subsections. Among the various headings, they could make out terms such as “Maneuver Warfare,” “Holy Statue Warfare,” “Blitzkrieg,” “Annihilation Warfare,” “Psychological Warfare,” “Propaganda Warfare,” “Intelligence Warfare,” and “Air Raids.”

Each subsection contained detailed operational plans, complete with illustrations, diagrams, and strategic breakdowns. The sheer level of detail was remarkable, leaving little room for ambiguity regarding the intended execution of each operation.

While the players browsed the operational guidelines with curiosity and excitement, Li Mu continued his explanation.

“The central principles of this operation are laid out in this manual. I will oversee the entire war and coordinate directly with Big Sister Zero, Alice, and the commanders of several legions. As for the commanders of the seven army groups, they will have the freedom to exercise their own initiative, provided they adhere to the overall strategic direction.”

“On the whole, our strategy will prioritize offense, with defense playing a supporting role.”

“Our offensive operations will continue until every attacking unit has been completely wiped out. After resurrection, players must immediately return to defensive duties or regroup for a second offensive. We cannot afford to waste even a moment.”

“Offense is the best defense, but that doesn’t mean we can abandon defense entirely. Therefore, while carrying out offensive operations, each army group must properly coordinate the deployment of its attacking and defensive forces to ensure that neither side is neglected.”

“All NPC forces will be assigned defensive duties, including elven troops, human troops, and reinforcements arriving from other allied factions. They will be responsible for maintaining our defensive lines and securing our territories.”

“Additionally, every player participating in the offensive campaign must obtain a supply of poison from one of our seven major guilds…”

“Poison?”

At these words, the players below were momentarily stunned. A flurry of discussion broke out as they exchanged puzzled glances, clearly wondering what Li Mu intended to accomplish with such an unusual arrangement.

Li Mu glanced around the room and sighed softly.

“Everyone, at this point, do you really believe our enemies still don’t know that we can resurrect?”

“This poison is intended for self-PK in the event that we are captured. If the enemy decides not to kill us, but instead seals or imprisons us, then we can use it to end our lives and return to the battlefield through resurrection.”

Hearing Li Mu’s explanation, the players immediately understood the reasoning behind the arrangement.

“Is this really necessary? Every time a Gold-ranked player dies, it costs quite a few resurrection coins…”

A senior guildmaster could not help but voice his concern.

Hearing this, Li Mu chuckled.

“Everyone, don’t be so reluctant to commit suicide just to save a few resurrection coins. When the situation calls for it, do it decisively. The sooner you return to the city and resurrect, the sooner you can rejoin the battle. Our enemies are stronger than ever before, but the opportunities to gain experience and earn contribution points are equally unprecedented.”

“Resurrection coins? Heh! Just die and come back for another round!”

Demacia, standing on the other side, spoke with equal enthusiasm, seemingly unconcerned about the cost of repeated deaths.

“Exactly! They’re just a few resurrection coins. I hereby promise that all members of Moe Moe Committee’s army groups will have their resurrection coins fully reimbursed, provided they have contributed enough to the war!”

Little Salty Cat patted her chest and made the generous promise.

Li Mu: “…”

Demacia: “…”

Tomato Stir-Fried: “…”

Ji Gang: “…”

Noticing the strange looks directed at her by the other guildmasters, Little Salty Cat grinned.

“Hehehe! What? I’ve got plenty of money, so I can afford to be this extravagant!”

The other guildmasters: “…”

as expected of the legendary Moe Moe Committee…

“Boss Cat, is it still possible for me to join your guild?”

Demacia asked with a cheeky grin.

“Forget it. How many times have I told you? Dogs like you are not welcome in our guild.”

Little Salty Cat rolled her eyes at him.

“Discrimination! This is discrimination!”

Demacia whined, putting on an exaggeratedly aggrieved expression.

༺⟐༻

The meeting lasted throughout the morning.

Afterward, the seven major guilds each held another internal meeting for their respective army groups, ensuring that every member was fully briefed on the upcoming operations. Copies of Elven Kingdom: Great Holy War Operational Guidelines were subsequently distributed throughout their ranks, allowing the players to familiarize themselves with the detailed plans and strategic arrangements.

Once the meetings had finally concluded, all players participating in the war quickly sprang into action. The main forces assembled into offensive units and departed for the front lines, while the defensive forces headed toward the various major cities, continuing their feverish efforts to construct fortifications and strengthen the existing defensive infrastructure.

Notably, the main offensive forces traveled remarkably light. They brought neither heavy siege equipment nor airships, carrying little more than their personal belongings and, at most, riding their own magical beasts.

The main forces of each army group were further divided into smaller units of ten or twenty thousand players, forming independent legions. Centered around large and medium-sized guilds, these legions advanced toward the hostile human nations, spreading out across the vast landscape as they made their way toward the front lines.

Meanwhile, in Maple Moon Free Territory and the Southern Territory, holy statues of the Goddess were erected atop the walls of numerous cities, particularly those situated along the border regions. These statues were designed to establish divine defensive barriers, providing the cities with an additional layer of protection against the impending invasion.

As for the players still operating within human territories, those who had not yet managed to withdraw also ceased their retreat. Instead, they concealed their identities and disappeared into the shadows, remaining behind to continue their covert activities.

Intelligence reconnaissance was equally important in warfare.

These players, who had deliberately remained behind, would soon embark on another thrilling and dangerous covert operation on a different battlefield, gathering crucial information that could prove decisive in the coming conflict.

The atmosphere of war continued to spread…

Maple Moon Free Territory, Zelouan

༺⟐༻

Ever since news of the Eternal Church’s declaration of the Great Holy War had reached the city, this once prosperous and peaceful settlement had gradually become shrouded in tension.

The number of pedestrians on the streets had steadily declined, while soldiers had become an increasingly common sight. The city’s once lively atmosphere had given way to a sense of unease, as its residents gradually came to realize that the war was no longer a distant concern.

The harbor had also grown considerably quieter. The number of merchant ships arriving and departing had fallen by more than half. However, cargo ships sailing from the direction of the Elven Forest had become increasingly numerous.

Every day, vessels bearing the elven flag could be seen docking at the harbor, unloading crate after crate of military supplies. The goods were promptly transported away, destined for the city’s defenses and the troops stationed nearby.

Meanwhile, along the outskirts of Zelouan, newly constructed walls were being equipped with heavy crossbows and mana crystal cannons of distinctly elven design.

Tall elven figures could occasionally be seen directing the city guards and militia volunteers as they worked busily along the walls and throughout the city. Under their supervision, defensive preparations were proceeding at an increasingly rapid pace.

In Zelouan’s newly developed district, in front of a recently constructed house…

A man and a woman stood at the doorway, holding hands and gazing at each other.

The woman appeared to be in her early twenties. She wore a simple, clean dress, and her eyes were filled with reluctance as she looked at the man before her.

The man, meanwhile, wore gleaming armor and had a resolute expression.

“Darling, are you really going to the battlefield?”

Looking at the man’s shining armor, the woman’s eyes filled with deep concern.

The man smiled faintly.

“Of course. As a member of the city guard, this is precisely when Maple Moon needs me most.”

“But… but we’ve only just started living a good life…”

The woman could not help but voice her reluctance.

The man sighed softly.

“Darling, you have to understand that the good life we enjoy today exists precisely because of the Church of Life and Maple Moon Territory.”

He paused for a moment before continuing.

“So if Maple Moon falls, then… we will have nothing left either.”

As he spoke, he reached out and gently brushed the hair away from his beloved’s face.

“Don’t worry. With the help of the elves, I’ve already completed my warrior training. I’m now a full-fledged combat expert. I’ll take care of myself. Just wait for me at home.”

The woman fell silent.

She lowered her head slightly, making her expression difficult to discern. Her fingers tightened around his hand, as though she were reluctant to let him go.

Only after a long moment did she finally release her beloved’s hand.

“Fine, I’ll wait for you at home. You must come back safely.”

“Don’t worry. I’m still waiting for our child to call me ‘Daddy.’”

The man smiled.

As he spoke, his gaze softened and drifted toward his beloved’s abdomen, his eyes filled with boundless tenderness.

But soon, his expression became solemn once more.

He put on his helmet, turned around, and walked away.

His wife remained standing in front of the doorway, watching her husband’s figure gradually disappear into the crowd.

She stood there for a long time, unable to move.

“Have you said your goodbyes to your wife?”

At Zelouan’s city gate, Captain Jason asked the young warrior who had just returned to the formation. He took a long gulp of ale as he spoke.

“Yes, Captain. I’ve already said goodbye.”

The young warrior nodded gently.

“Ah… You really didn’t have to come. You haven’t been married for long, and you’re about to become a father. Lady Sophia even mentioned in the conscription notice that anyone in your situation could remain in the city as volunteers. You didn’t need to go to the front lines along the border.”

Jason shook his head, his expression tinged with concern.

“But this is precisely when our territory needs us. At a time like this, someone has to step forward to protect our homeland and secure a better future for our children. Besides, I’m one of the few people who have received training from the elves in operating heavy crossbows. I’m particularly suited to defending a border fortress.”

The young warrior replied with a solemn expression, his words carrying a firm conviction.

Jason was momentarily taken aback. His expression grew complicated.

“Have you never considered that you might die out there? If you die, what will happen to your wife? What about your unborn child?”

The young warrior smiled faintly.

“If that day truly comes… I believe Lady Sophia will take care of them. The Church of Life will also look after them.”

Looking at the young man’s fervent and unwavering expression, Jason fell silent.

His gaze grew distant. After a moment, he sighed.

“You remind me of a friend of mine…”

“A friend?”

The young warrior looked at him in confusion.

Captain Jason nodded, his gaze turning distant as he recalled the past.

He took another long gulp of ale and sighed.

“He was a man who fought for his faith until the very end. Even in his final moments, he was still fighting for the Goddess, fighting for the future…”

The young warrior’s expression grew solemn, and his eyes filled with admiration.

“From the sound of it, he was a warrior worthy of respect.”

“A warrior…”

Jason murmured.

In his mind, the image of the figure he had seen shouting with conviction amid the flames in a magical projection crystal appeared once more. He also recalled the powerful, unwavering voice of his old friend, echoing through the final moments of his life.

Jason’s expression gradually softened.

“Indeed… A warrior.”

“He truly was a warrior worthy of respect…”

As he spoke, he raised his hand, gently closed his eyes, and reverently traced the symbol of the Scepter of Life across his chest.

Just then, the thunderous sound of galloping hooves, like the pounding of war drums, came from beyond the city.

The two exchanged glances before turning their attention toward the city gates.

Dust billowed in the distance.

A seemingly endless procession of fully armed elves rode atop towering magical beasts, galloping toward the horizon. Their ranks stretched so far that the entire formation could not be seen at once.

Golden iris banners fluttered among the troops, their brilliant colors standing out against the clouds of dust.

“That’s the Heart of Nature Legion of the elves. This should be their final legion to depart. It looks like their core force, too. Sir Demacia is leading them.”

Captain Jason remarked as he recognized the distinctive banners.

“The elven army…”

A trace of admiration appeared in the young warrior’s eyes.

“I wish I could be as brave as they are…”

“Heh! I’m afraid that’s beyond your reach. They’re the Goddess’s own kin, the Elven Chosen Ones!”

Jason laughed.

“No! We are also followers of the Goddess. We must contribute our own share to this war!”

The young warrior declared proudly, his voice growing louder with conviction.

Jason burst into laughter.

“Hahaha! Well said! We are also followers of the Goddess, and we are also part of Maple Moon Free Territory. We must contribute our own share! For the Goddess, for Maple Moon Free Territory, and for a better future!”

“That’s right! For the Goddess, for Maple Moon Free Territory, and for a better future!”

The young warrior echoed excitedly.

Seeing his high-spirited appearance, Jason could not help but feel his own enthusiasm surge.

He drained the rest of his ale in one gulp and laughed heartily.

“Come on! Let’s give those invaders a proper lesson and show them just how formidable Maple Moon Free Territory is!”

“Yes! Let’s go!”

The young warrior laughed and nodded.

They gathered with the other guards, joined the troops heading toward the border defenses, and began their march toward the front lines.

Behind them, atop the city walls…

Sophia, the governor of Maple Moon Free Territory, stood on the battlements, her gaze fixed on the elven army disappearing into the distance.

Several years had passed, and this young woman had become far more mature than before. Her every movement now carried an air of authority and confidence. She was no longer the inexperienced noble girl she had once been.

The rapid development of Maple Moon Free Territory over the past several years had been made possible not only by the support of the elves, but also by her own considerable contributions.

A gentle breeze swept across the walls, tousling Sophia’s hair and making her clothes rustle.

Her gaze followed the vast tide of elven soldiers as they continued to move farther away, watching the fluttering iris banners gradually disappear from sight.

Only after a long time did she slowly withdraw her gaze.

“I will defend Maple Moon Free Territory.”

“Good luck… May your journey be safe…”

She murmured softly.

At the same time, elsewhere, Demacia whose leading his guild’s army group forward suddenly noticed a notification about his favorability.

He was momentarily stunned.

【Ding!】

【Sophia von Wells’s favorability toward you has increased by 1 point…】

Demacia: “…”

He glanced strangely in the direction of Zelouan and scratched his head in bewilderment.

“Her favorability drops whenever we meet, so why does it increase as soon as I leave…?”

Demacia looked utterly confused.

However, he quickly shook off his bewilderment and returned to his usual high spirits.

Riding his Dragon-Scale Horse and standing atop a hillside, Demacia gazed ahead.

The vast, fertile plains stretched endlessly before him, offering an unobstructed view in every direction. The distant horizon seemed to beckon the advancing army onward.

He cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted to the players behind him.

“Brothers! Have you got the stuff I told you to prepare?”

“Yeah! It’s ready!”

The players behind him answered in unison.

“Hahaha! Good! The entire army, advance! Let’s give the Eternal Church a good, hard kick in the ass! Let’s show them why flowers are red!”

Demacia raised his sword and shouted.

“Hahahahahaha!”

Laughter erupted from the players behind him.

“Let’s go!”

“Let’s go!”

Everyone let out a resounding cheer and quickened their pace.

The mighty army surged forward like a raging torrent, advancing toward the Empire.

Before long, it disappeared beyond the horizon.

—