Chapter 265 Ryntum In Disguise



As the soldiers obeyed the mayor's orders, another soldier approached Samuel, whispering urgently, "Sir, we've discovered valuable information. The supply from Inverloch was indeed passing through Hajdu before being transported north."

Mayor Lazo's eyebrows rose. He nodded in acknowledgement. "Is that so? he murmured. "Let us waste no time. We shall go and see the supply."

With a swift nod, Mayor Lazo led the way, accompanied by the soldier who had brought him the news. They made their way through the city, manoeuvring through the streets until they reached the area where the supplies were being stored.

As they arrived, the sight of numerous crates and barrels filled with resources confirmed the soldier's report. The significance of this discovery was not lost on Mayor Lazo. It was a chance to disrupt the enemy's logistics and gain a crucial advantage in the war.

"Secure this area," Mayor Lazo commanded, his voice resonating with authority. "We must safeguard these supplies and ensure they are put to good use."

"Good use? How?" asked the curious soldier, his brows furrowing with intrigue.

"You will see," Mayor Lazo responded cryptically. He then issued a command to his troops. "Strip the Inverloch uniforms from the prisoners and the fallen soldiers of their army."

With precision and efficiency, the Ryntum soldiers carried out the mayor's orders. They carefully removed the distinctive attire of the enemy, preparing to utilize a clever ruse.

The Ryntum soldiers begin to adorn themselves in the Inverloch uniforms, each article of clothing fitting snugly against their bodies. They fastened the buckles, adjusted the straps, and donned the helmets. 

The feeling was both strange and nostalgic for the long-serving soldiers who had grown accustomed to the sleek and practical attire of their modern warfare. The weight of the armour and the familiar clinking of metal plates served as reminders of a bygone era when swords and shields were their primary weapons of choice.

Despite the changes in technology and tactics, the soldiers couldn't deny a certain sense of nostalgia that washed over them as they embraced the traditional attire. It evoked memories of battles fought in close quarters, of camaraderie forged on the battlefield, and of a simpler time when warfare was waged with honour and valour.

Since the Inverloch soldiers in Hajdu are fewer than Ryntum soldiers, not every soldier could partake in this operation.

The mayor had to carefully select those who would participate in the ruse, ensuring that the infiltrators possessed the necessary skills and adaptability to convincingly impersonate their enemies.

As for those who remained behind, they were divided into two groups, one would guard the captured cities in place of Mayor Lazo and another one will follow them from behind.

In the event that an enemy force did arrive, the Ryntum soldiers were prepared to capture and acquire their uniforms, allowing for the perpetuation of the deception.

"Are you guys finished changing your uniforms?" asked the mayor, his voice laced with authority, as he observed the Ryntum soldiers now dressed as Inverloch troops.

"Yes, sir," came the unified response from the soldiers, their voices low but filled with determination.

"Good," Mayor Lazo nodded, satisfied with their readiness. He motioned for them to gather closer, their disguised presence hidden from prying eyes. "Listen carefully, everyone. We are embarking on a mission unlike any other. Our goal is not to engage in a conventional war, but rather to sow chaos and confusion from within the enemy's camp."

The soldiers nodded, their eyes reflecting their understanding of the task at hand. They were ready to become shadows in the enemy's midst, employing cunning and deception to undermine the enemy forces.

The disguised Ryntum soldiers, now masquerading as a supply team departed from Hajdu.

As they made their way northward, their convoy resembled a legitimate supply operation. Wagons and carts filled with crates and provisions rolled along the dusty road, accompanied by soldiers donning the stolen Inverloch uniforms to maintain the illusion.

Their first stop on this covert journey was the city of Lonsbak. As the Ryntum convoy approached the city gates, they saw them swing open promptly, as if welcoming a familiar sight.

"Supply for our troops?" asked the gatekeeper, probably trying to act friendly.

"Yes, for our troops," replied the mayor calmly. 

"Seems like a lot this time, isn't it?" asked the gatekeeper again, peering at the crates.

The gatekeepers, accustomed to the regular flow of supplies, didn't raise any suspicion at the seemingly large number of people or the abundance of crates carried by the Ryntum soldiers.

Mayor Lazo inwardly cursed this overly friendly gatekeeper but maintained his composure. "Yes, the battle will become more intense from now on. We need to keep our soldiers well-fed."

"Aye, that's true. Can't have warriors fighting on empty stomachs." A glimmer of understanding crossed the gatekeeper's eyes as he chuckled. "Please proceed inside. Glory to the empire!"

Mayor Lazo nodded gratefully. "Thank you, my friend. Glory to the empire indeed."

As the Ryntum convoy passed through the open gates, the tension that had gripped them began to ease. They knew their covert mission was off to a promising start.

Mayor Lazo's sharp eyes scanned the interior of the city, mentally mapping the position of Inverloch's personnel. He observed noting every important information and the locations where the Inverloch congregated. Each detail was crucial for their plan to unfold seamlessly.

Under the guise of the "supply team" leader, Mayor Lazo approached the temporary city official appointed by Hector, requesting permission for his team to take a temporary rest. Oblivious to the true nature of the Ryntum soldiers, readily granted his request.

At night, when the city was shrouded in darkness, Mayor Lazo gathered his disguised soldiers for a crucial briefing. The quiet murmurs of anticipation filled the air as they huddled together, their faces partially hidden beneath the borrowed Inverloch uniforms.

"It's time to move," Mayor Lazo's voice resonated, barely audible above the soft rustle of the night breeze. The soldiers nodded in silent agreement.

With utmost precision, they executed their plan. Working in synchronized harmony, they neutralized the Inverloch forces stationed within the city.

Swift and silent, they incapacitated their foes, ensuring none of the inhabitants was aware of the ongoing massacre. 

Once the city was secured, Mayor Lazo signalled for the gates to be opened. The sound of creaking metal pierced the night as the imposing entrance revealed the waiting Ryntum soldiers who had discreetly followed their disguised comrades.

The Ryntum soldiers stepped forward, shedding their attire and donning the Inverloch uniforms given to them. The exchange of uniforms was swift but meticulous, ensuring that the facade would continue to deceive any potential observers.

As the night wore on, the city of Lonsbak change hands from Inverloch to Ryntum.

[A/N: Map]