She stops and turns. “According to our Senate, you’re not my commanding officer. You’re a traitor.” There’s only one thing to do with doubt. Stomp on it. “Imperator, I don’t need your opinions. I don’t care about your feelings. I don’t care if you doubt the Republic. I don’t care if you hate its people. For this army, this is an extinction event. My only care is that my best weapon is sharp before zero hour. Will you be sharp, Imperator?” She snaps to attention. “As a rat’s teeth, sir.”
