“Classified documents 03 through 07—burning complete!”

“Good. First Company is dissolved. All subordinate NCOs are hereby discharged. Return issued equipment and escape at once, without waiting for Second Company’s return. Officers will remain behind and assist their men’s withdrawal.”

The dismantling of the Imperial Ceremonial Battalion was reaching its final stage.
First Company, which until now had managed my reports and salary, was shedding its black uniforms and changing back into the clothes of ordinary citizens.

Second Company had not yet been dissolved since its captain was still on his way back. And my own Third Company had not yet been ordered to disband.

Then the Major strode toward me, her boots striking sharp against the floor.

“Captain Fonkt, to the Battalion Commander’s office. Burn ‘those papers’ with your own hand.”

“Understood.”