Keeping the Pressure Part 1

Sara analyzed the targets' vector paths and keyed in the data. "They're breaking engagement, likely to regroup. They've realized they're compromised."

Richard's voice carried the calm of a seasoned commander. "They won't slip the noose. Status on the ordnance?"

"Ordnance is combat-ready for a cluster strike," Mark reported, his tone crisp and clear over the comm link.

"Authorize the strike. Hit them before they can fall back to their staging area," Richard commanded without hesitation.

"Copy that, sir," Mark acknowledged. He toggled the switch on his console, opening a secure channel to the artillery battery. "Blackwatch to Excalibur, fire mission, type Alpha, cluster mission. You are cleared hot. I say again, you are cleared hot. Engage with a full payload, over."

The command was met with immediate affirmation from the battery commander. "Excalibur copies, Blackwatch. Firing for effect, out."