"Your ships will reinforce the same forces currently scouting Crownward territory and preparing another defensive concentration under Saevor Drann. You may surrender. You may not withdraw under arms."
Keln's face hardened.
"So this is not about Sanctuary Ardent."
"It stopped being only about Sanctuary Ardent when Drann began scouting our settlements."
Keln seemed to understand the answer.
He did not waste time arguing.
The communication ended.
Within seconds, the Compact formation changed.
Instead of turning to fight Solenne as one fleet, the ships separated.
Cruisers broke toward different directions.
Destroyers accelerated away in pairs.
The three supply transports each took a separate route with escorts around them.
Rhoswen leaned over the tactical table.
"They're running."
Aurelian nodded.
"Smart."
She looked at him.
"You approve?"
"I would do the same if I couldn't win."
Astra studied the dispersing formation.
