Page 320 of Commander’s Mate

I sent the order.

The first complaint arrived in forty seconds.

A former lieutenant named Haret came to my office personally.

He did not yell.

That would have been easier.

He stood in front of the desk with perfect military posture.

“You removed my transfer.”

“Delayed.”

“By at least four days.”

“Yes.”

“I have been separated from active Farseek command since the fall.”

“I know.”

“I am fit for duty.”

“Medical agrees.”

“Then explain.”

I did.

He listened.

His face did not change.

When I finished, he said, “You chose children over soldiers.”

“I chose family reunification over a training schedule.”

“Same result.”

“Yes.”

“You are not Farseek.”

“No.”

“You are not military.”

“No.”

“You have authority to delay officers?”

“Civilian recovery authority. Apparently.”

His jaw tightened.

I almost called Zared.