Chapter 22: Siege equipment
it would be greatly appreciated if you could leave your review to show the score to people who are interested in the story.
-------------------------
If there are spelling mistakes, please let me know.
Leave a comment; support is always appreciated.
I remind you to leave your ideas or what you would like to see.
-------------------------------
Repairing something in my refuge was much easier than having to work elsewhere, since here I had a large number of technicians who had been trained using the teaching pods to learn how to repair objects like the Vertibird. This time, I wasn't working alone and had the necessary tools to perfectly restore this ancient technology.
With my team of technicians, the repair process progressed rapidly. Each one applied their specialized knowledge, and together we disassembled and reviewed every component of the Vertibird. The engines were dismantled and cleaned; we replaced worn-out parts and updated the electronic systems. The control system, which was previously rudimentary and difficult to handle, was completely redesigned. Now, the controls were more precise and responsive, greatly facilitating piloting.
As we worked, I also considered the possibility of installing the G.E.C.K.'s cold fusion generator. Sacrificing one of them wasn't easy—it could terraform dead land into a paradise—but it would guarantee that the Vertibird had a practically unlimited energy source.
I consulted with my technicians, and we began adapting the Vertibird's electrical system to integrate the generator. This would eliminate our dependence on diesel fuel, which would eventually run out if I continued using the aircraft constantly.
Days passed, and the Vertibird started to take shape. The structural and technological modifications turned it into a more efficient and reliable machine. I decided to conduct a test flight to ensure everything worked correctly. I climbed into the cockpit, and this time, when I powered up the systems, I felt how the Vertibird responded smoothly and precisely.
The takeoff was flawless. The cold fusion generator provided stable energy, and the new controls made maneuvering easier. I flew around the refuge, performing various speed and stability tests.
Everything was perfect, and it didn't take me as much time as the provisional repairs I'd previously done just to make it work.
I then dedicated all the time I had left to preparing something so Lanius wouldn't kill me for "deserting my post." I had to bring along a couple of workers to the facility to be the face and deal with the Legion patrols that would pass by checking that everything was in order. I also needed to prepare a better production line for weaponry and fulfill my promise to Lanius regarding minor siege armaments.
Meanwhile, I had to improve the legionaries' equipment. I thought about introducing simple mortars that the common legionary could use before charging with machete in hand. Mortars between 50mm and 81mm would be the right choice. The smaller calibers would serve against lightly fortified enemies in trenches, while the larger ones would be effective against more resistant fortifications.
The 50mm mortars only require one legionary to operate them, which makes them even more suitable for our strategy. Being lightweight and manageable by a single person, they allow for greater mobility and speed on the battlefield. This is crucial since each legionary can carry their own equipment without relying on slaves or pack animals that could slow down the advance.
On the other hand, the 81mm mortars, although heavier, could be handled by small teams and are intended for more resistant targets like enemy fortifications. By integrating these mortars into our tactics, we could cause chaos in enemy lines before a charge, significantly reducing the casualties we would normally suffer in each battle.
With my technicians by my side, I began working on the mortar designs in the refuge's workshop. I decided to focus initially on the 50mm and 81mm mortars, as they were more practical for the Legion's current needs and didn't require a large investment in resources or labor. The 120mm mortars could be considered in the future but would depend on the Legion's acceptance and demand. I didn't want to allocate workers and supply lines to a product that the Legion might value at their whim.
I spent long hours refining the designs, ensuring the mortars were efficient, lightweight, and easy for legionaries to use, hoping none would explode in their faces due to mistakes. Each component was analyzed to optimize functionality and facilitate mass production.
Meanwhile, I maintained constant communication with McKinley to coordinate material acquisition and manage factory production. Her efficiency in negotiating with suppliers and securing necessary resources proved far superior to mine; she had managed to create a strong network with merchants that kept our operations running smoothly.
The slave laborers continued working to the best of their abilities, motivated by the promise of freedom upon completing the work. We knew that upon completion, we would offer them jobs that would barely allow them to cover their basic needs, which would keep them in a form of labor slavery but with more benefits than regular slaves.
A couple of days passed, and we finally had several mortars ready to be sent to Lanius. If they pleased him, his anger should diminish, and perhaps he would overlook that I abandoned my position and duties for almost two weeks.
I ordered the mortars to be carefully packed and loaded onto the Vertibird, along with the munitions. I also brought along the workers who had been in charge of being the visible face at the facilities once governed by Diana but which would now be controlled by a basic AI.
The return flight was incredibly calm. The controls no longer had that stiffness that prevented me from better handling; the trip lasted a little over three hours, and the energy generator I had installed seemed to work wonderfully with the engines.
I landed at the facility and let the group of technicians take charge of keeping the robots operational. At the same time, the robots themselves would monitor the technicians to prevent them from doing anything reckless, like attempting to escape or informing the Legion about what was truly happening deep within the facilities.
Then, I gathered my legionaries who were guarding the place and activated the robots I had repaired. Officially, we set in motion the marvel of ancient technology to do its job: generate tons of radiation-free food, feed the Legion and its subjects, and, of course, fill my pockets.
The facility came to life. Lights turned on in the long corridors, and the hum of machines filled the air. Robots moved efficiently through the sections, overseeing each process. The technicians, under the watchful eyes of the machines, worked tirelessly.
I watched from an elevated platform as everything operated perfectly. The hydroponic crops were rapidly growing under artificial lights, and the automated systems ensured that each plant received the exact nutrients it needed. The pure water, extracted and purified by the facility, flowed abundantly.
We once again took off in the Vertibird and headed to the Legion's camp, which should be in the area or already on the move to confront the Sundogs. The horizon was painted with the colors of sunset.
After a couple of hours of flight, we spotted the Legion's camp. The tents stood orderly, and patrols moved with discipline around the perimeter. I landed the Vertibird in a clear area, drawing the attention of nearby legionaries. Some watched us with curiosity, still not accustomed to the presence of this machine in our ranks, but fortunately, this time they didn't shoot at us like the last time.
Upon disembarking, a decurion approached quickly.
"Centurion Gaius, Legate Lanius awaits your report. To say he's angry is an understatement, but he hasn't ordered your crucifixion yet, so you might make it out alive," the decurion said in a serious voice.
"Yes, I have just the report for Lanius right here," I replied, tapping some crates that contained the mortars and munitions I had brought.
The decurion nodded and accompanied me to the command tent. Upon entering, I found Lanius standing, as imposing as ever, his mask of the god Mars reflecting the torchlight. His presence filled the space, and the officers around him remained silent.
"Centurion Gaius," Lanius pronounced gravely, not taking his gaze off me. "You have abandoned your post for two weeks without authorization. According to the frumentarii, you returned to your castra. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"
Without losing composure, I placed the two crates I had brought and opened them, revealing the mortars inside.
"I had to fulfill my orders, Legate Lanius. I promised siege weapons to the Legion. Here they are," I responded calmly, pointing to the weapons.
Lanius approached and examined the mortars carefully. His mask of the god Mars concealed any hint of emotion, but his posture reflected interest.
"Mortars," he murmured. "Explain how these weapons will benefit the Legion," Lanius said in his grave voice.
"These mortars allow us to bombard the enemy from a safe distance before our troops charge. We can weaken their defenses and cause chaos in their ranks, reducing our casualties and ensuring faster victories," I explained confidently.
Lanius crossed his arms, considering my words.
"The Legion has triumphed thanks to the strength and bravery of its legionaries, not by relying on weapons. The strength of the Legion is measured by the strength of its weakest link," said Lanius.
"I understand, Legate. But these weapons do not replace the valor of our men; they complement it. Mortars are tools that will enhance our effectiveness without altering our fundamental tactics. A massive volley of 50mm mortars at the enemy lines before a machete charge, and amid the dead and the dust, the charge will be much more effective—even deadly," I said confidently.
There was a moment of silence. The officers around him watched expectantly.
"Demonstrate their value," Lanius finally ordered.
"Of course, give me a few minutes, Legate, and I'll prepare practice targets," I said, maintaining my calm.
With a nod from Lanius, I hurried to organize the demonstration. I ordered my men to set up a series of targets in the nearby field. The legionaries worked efficiently, placing stakes and marking distances to show the mortars' range and precision.
Meanwhile, I personally checked the mortars, ensuring everything was in perfect condition. The Legion's officers began to gather around the practice area, observing with curiosity.
"All set, Centurion," one of my men reported.
"Legate, we are ready to begin," I turned to Lanius.
"Proceed," he crossed his arms, his gaze fixed on the field.
"Well, the 50mm mortar has an effective range of six hundred meters and only takes a few moments to set up to bombard a position," I said, assembling the mortar in front of Lanius.
"Cover yourselves... fire," I warned the group and covered my ears, even though I was wearing power armor.
The projectile soared through the air and exploded near the target, raising a cloud of dust and fragments. The officers exchanged looks of surprise.
I took out the 81mm mortar from its crates and began to assemble it, preparing to fire at a target almost a kilometer away.
The resulting explosion was more potent, completely destroying the designated target. Murmurs of approval were heard among those present.
"As you can see, Legate, these mortars allow us to attack the enemy from a safe distance, weakening their defenses before our charge. And considering that the 81mm mortar has a range of almost five thousand meters, we can hit them without them knowing where the strike came from," I approached Lanius, pointing to the mortar.
Lanius observed the field in silence before responding.
"The effectiveness is evident. How many can you produce?" Lanius asked, changing his tone.
"About two hundred of the small ones and a hundred of the large ones each month. I can even manage to produce some 120mm ones if they are to your liking. But how much can the Legion pay for them?" I said confidently.
"If you wait until the end of the year, I can pay you in coin or machinery—the usual: slaves. With the capture of over five thousand slaves from the Twin Mothers, there will be plenty of slave labor available," Lanius responded.
"Slaves are a good payment since we need to put the future granary of the Legion to work. And speaking of food, the facilities are already operating with expert workers. The Legion will have its tribute guaranteed this year, and above all, I can guarantee that the food and water will be completely radiation-free," I continued speaking confidently.
"Very well, Centurion. Regarding your punishment... train men in the use of mortars. I cannot ignore the abandonment of your post," said Lanius, who began to adjust the inclination of the mortar and test it.
"I will fulfill the punishment, Legate. I'll go unload the rest of the equipment I've brought," I said, heading to the Vertibird.
------------------------
Leave a comment; support is always appreciated.
----------------------
I remind you to leave your ideas or what you would like to see.
----------------------
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone