Summoning America

Chapter 177: To Mu

Author's Note (Story and Patreon Updates):

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Note 2:

Chapter 178 is now out for all Tier 2 Patrons and higher! Tier 2 Patrons and higher will be able to read one chapter ahead!

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January 17, 1641

Washington, D.C.

United States

War is hell – mostly for the Gra Valkans. Any reasonable force would've capitulated at this point; President Lee couldn't imagine how World War 2 would've panned out if they had lost dozens of carriers without even dealing a single blow to Japan. So, why did the Gra Valkans keep fighting? Were they simply idiotic? The leaders of the Fourth and Fifth Conquest Fleets didn't seem so.

Well, he'd find out soon enough. He sighed as he walked down the hallway, making his way to the Situation Room. He pushed open the door to find the room already filled with his top advisors, from Secretary of Defense Robert Hill to the Director of National Intelligence Allen Fitch and his clandestine counterpart, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency Ethan Klein.

"I don't want to keep everyone waiting any longer. Let's begin," Lee announced, commanding the room's attention as he took his seat at the head of the table. A large screen to the side was already active, revealing Admiral Hawthorne's visage.

Hawthorne's briefing on the Battle of Junnaral commenced, "Mr. President, the Seventh Fleet achieved a significant strategic victory against the Gra Valkas Empire near the Mirishial port city of Junnaral. The complete neutralization of all enemy carriers has effectively diminished the Fourth Conquest Fleet's operational capabilities. Following the surrender of their commanding officer, the remaining escorts retreated north."

Lee's brow furrowed slightly at the mention of the retreat. It was a victory, yes, but the fleeing remnants of the enemy fleet were like wounded animals – potentially more dangerous in their desperation. Hawthorne seemed to anticipate his concern, continuing, "Though they lack the necessary range to pose a threat beyond visual engagement distances, they can still potentially threaten Mirishial assets. Thus, DESRON 15 has been tasked with containment and neutralization efforts against these remaining enemy units. Their objective is to eliminate any potential for enemy regrouping or counter-offensive actions within the Mirishial sector.

I'm pleased to report that our forces sustained no casualties during this operation. Our logistical operations are proceeding as planned. The Seventh Fleet's underway replenishment is on schedule, with completion anticipated by no later than January 25th. In the meantime, we will be overseeing rescue efforts and the processing of the Gra Valkan POWs."

The Gra Valkans' tenacity was as much a curse as it was a commendable trait. What drove them to continue, in the face of such losses? What did they hope to achieve? "Thank you, Admiral," he gave a respectful nod to the screen. "Keep us updated."

As Hawthorne's image faded from the screen, Lee returned to his circle of advisors. Lee focused on the last part of Hawthorne's report. "So, January 25? Do we have any updates on the Gra Valkan fleets?"

The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Jonathan Richmond, rustled his papers as he responded, "Yes, Mr. President. Our latest intelligence indicates the Gra Valkan Second Conquest Fleet is currently navigating the Artticus Ocean, with an adjusted ETA to Mykal on the 27th due to our selective jamming operations. The Third Conquest Fleet is projected to approach Otaheit by the morning of the 29th."

Lee absorbed the information, considering the effectiveness of their little decoy. "So we've bought a couple days and it still wasn't enough. Think they'll fall for it a second time?"