Thomas's words hung in the air like a blade poised to drop.
Lieutenant Colonel Santiago's expression barely shifted, but something about the way his fingers flexed slightly at his sides told Thomas everything he needed to know—this man had expected a different answer.
For a moment, neither side moved.
From above, Thomas knew his snipers were watching.
The Ironhold Garrison was poised and ready.
The Philippine soldiers? They were too still. Too measured. Too disciplined.
They weren't just here to talk.
A crackle of static broke the silence.
"Supreme Commander." Shadow 1's voice came through the radio in Thomas's earpiece. "Something's wrong. Their men in the trucks are shifting positions—subtle, but they're spreading out."
Thomas didn't react. He kept his expression calm, but his mind raced.
"Are they going for their weapons?" he asked quietly.
"Not yet," Shadow 1 replied. "But they're preparing for something."