Chapter 94

PRESENT DAY

***

"Matthew Catii's squadron has departed. They mean to make it to the southern portion of the outer territory within the next fifteen minutes, then work their way outward in a zig-zag pattern. The snow is falling harder now so they believe that's for the best, using it to their advantage instead of trying to take a straight path out, and they'll launch small ambushes on any rogue stragglers they find. Message delivered, Alpha Elizabeth!"

The lieutenant saluted her, and she accepted it with a firm nod. It almost felt natural now to have a few of her subordinates call her by that title. The rest still refused even if they respected her authority, but that didn't matter. What was important that she had their obedience and cooperation, not vain address and pomp.

"Good work, thank you for your diligence."

"Should I relay any message to the others, Alpha?"

"No. I trust them to be holding their positions as instructed. You should rest and prepare while you can, at least until t