Tabitha’s POV

“History leaves marks. Most of ours are carved into docks and patrol routes. Kaelara sits along a corridor that smugglers once used. Clearing that took years of coordination and a navy willing to stay and follow orders to heart.” Alpha Emery explains. “I’m lucky to have competent men in my base. Most of them were also born and raised on the island before they went to navy school and eventually got assigned here.”

Augustus hums. “You must’ve done a good job as the commander if they’re willing to follow your orders without complaints.”

“They understand the weight of our duty. Clearing patrol routes is essential not only for...