Leon almost raised his hands to clap as
his expression shifting to one of admiration.
However, Irina, standing close by, shot him a sharp look and her eyebrows raised in disapproval as if asking.
'What are you doing?'
Leon caught off guard, mumbled an apology, with his cheeks flushing slightly as he averted his gaze.
'Umm...Sorry, I liked his speech. Short, simple, precise, and straight to the point.'
Irina shook her head slightly but couldn't suppress a small, begrudging smile.
"Dismissed to your rest and readiness. We move out at first light."
"Yes, sir!" The soldiers responded in unison, their faces set in determined lines as they stood tall and marched away in disciplined formation.
Hale watched them go, his face softening just a fraction as he took in the sight of his troops dispersing with purpose.