To suppress the enemy forces numbering 5,000 machines, we moved south, getting closer to the enemy units.

“My lady, if we engage them head-on, we won’t stand a chance. Let’s go for a hit-and-run strategy,” said Vice Commander Damien.

As Damien pointed out, we weren’t in a position to fight them directly in terms of strength. Since annihilation wasn’t our goal, we adopted his plan.

Although it’s called a hit-and-run, if we’re spotted before we get close, it’s over, so we proceeded cautiously. The enemy seemed to be off guard, possibly because they were still preparing their operations. They were ready for battle, but their vigilance around them seemed weak.

“We will strike the enemy forces in one blow. Attack time is 3 minutes, and we will retreat strictly on time,” I declared.

“Alright, everyone, each of you better take down at least five!”

With Damien’s statement, the quota was set. None of the subordinates complained about it and readily accepted. In fact, some even became more motivated and turned it into a betting game, wagering how many machines they could destroy.

“I’ll crush ten! Any of you dare to bet against me?”

“I’ll bet 1,000 that you can’t.”

“2000 says it’s impossible.”

“First machine, I’ll bet 5,000 for a tie.”

“Hey, anyone betting that I can do it?”

“In that case, I’ll bet 10,000 that I can,” I said.

Although I wasn’t fond of betting, I joined in to keep the mood up and boost my subordinates’ morale.

“The captain’s joining in, so no backing out now. Guess we’re all fired up now!”

I didn’t know the names of all the members yet since I had only recently joined this squad, but thanks to this exchange, I remembered one of them was named Bakurin.

We were about a kilometer away from the enemy when they noticed our approach. However, our small numbers worked to our advantage, and the enemy didn’t take large-scale defensive measures. They prepared to face us head-on in battle.

“Jirarta squad, charge in and break their defensive formation!”

“Leave it to us!”

About ten heavily armored magic machines from Jirarta squad rushed toward the enemy’s front lines. The enemy responded by attacking with swords and spears, but their blows were deflected by our strong armor and couldn’t stop us. The enemy’s front row was completely shattered by Jirarta squad and fell apart. We charged in through the gap they left open.

To conceal the presence of our allies, I personally rushed deep into the enemy lines. The new model machine, Juonji, which Rafishal had forced me to ride, was comfortable to operate. I had heard it had its quirks, but so far, it hadn’t caused any issues.

The Juonji’s weapon was a naginata. Since I was more accustomed to using a rapier, it felt difficult to handle, but its performance was far superior and made it easy to use.

As I swung the naginata, the enemy’s armor was effortlessly torn apart. Additionally, an automatic magic shot triggered. Countless pitch-black, dark shards were created and shot toward the enemy. Once these black shards adhered to the enemy’s armor, they began to corrode and devour the enemy machines, breaking them apart.

The sheer power of the single blow and the simultaneous automatic area magic shot’s destructive power was a terrifying threat. In no time, the bodies of the enemy piled up. Our allies were also strong. The goal of destroying five units each wasn’t an exaggeration; everyone was on track to accomplish it.