The order was issued without a hint of malice or passion. It was simple arithmetic. The turrets were a problem; bombers were the solution. Aegis units were assets; their loss needed to be managed. The defenders below were not soldiers to be admired but obstacles to be efficiently removed.
"Directive confirmed," Cleo stated. "Vectoring Bomber Squadrons Sigma and Tau. Transmitting advance protocols to Tyrant Battalion Commanders."
On the ground, the desperate stalemate was shattered in an instant. The distinctive, piercing shriek of ordnance slicing through the air was the only warning. It wasn't the broad, apocalyptic fire from the destroyers. This was precise, localized, and utterly terrifying.
From behind the ruins, Vance watched as a sleek, arrowhead-shaped craft streaked across the smoldering sky. They moved with a silent, predatory grace before releasing their payloads.
