Chapter 68: First Strike
The air was electric, anticipation settling in the room like a live wire. Raizen stood at the head of the strategy table, watching as his growing allies finalized preparations for their first offensive strike against House Valen. This was the beginning of his war.
The system pulsed.
[Mission Update: First Strike]
[Objective: Eliminate a high-ranking Valen enforcer to destabilize their chain of command]
Liana adjusted her gloves. "Joran's men are already mobilizing. We hit Valen's supply convoy first, then cut off their escape routes. If we do this right, they won't even know what hit them."
Kain grinned, loading his sidearm. "This is going to send a message."
Raizen smirked. "That's the point."
The convoy moved through the industrial sector, a heavily armed armored transport escorted by two hovercrafts. House Valen wasn't taking any chances, but they still underestimated him.
Raizen perched atop a high-rise, watching as the vehicles approached the ambush zone. The moment was near.
The system pulsed.
[Ambush Timing: Optimal Strike Window Approaching]
He raised a hand, signaling to Joran's team below.
"Execute."
Explosions rocked the night as carefully placed charges detonated, sending the lead hovercraft spiraling into the alley wall. Gunfire erupted instantly as Joran's mercenaries swarmed the remaining guards.
Raizen dropped from the rooftop, landing amidst the chaos. A Valen enforcer turned toward him, raising his rifle—too slow.
Draconic Step activated.
Raizen blurred forward, his fist crashing into the enforcer's ribs, sending him flying into a wall. Another came at him from the side—he twisted, grabbing the man's wrist and flipping him onto the pavement with a sickening crunch.
Joran roared as he tore through the remaining guards with brute force, his cybernetic arm crushing skulls as if they were paper.
Within minutes, the battle was over.
Raizen approached the armored transport, the final enforcer inside trembling as he aimed a shaky gun. "P-please—"
Raizen grabbed the barrel, bending the rifle with raw strength. His golden eyes burned. "Tell Valen his time is up."
The system pulsed.
[Mission Complete: First Strike]
[Reward: Valen Forces Weakened]
[New Mission: Prepare for the Counterattack]
Raizen exhaled as he stepped back, watching the fear settle in the enforcer's eyes. House Valen wasn't prepared for him. But they would be soon.