"Knowing they're within range of the fortress guns is bound to throw them into confusion, especially those armored carriers preparing for a concentrated landing assault," Little Gray said.
"No. If the Imperial fleet were functioning normally, they might be alarmed at this point, but they shouldn't be thrown into disarray." Yu Lian seemed to be answering her, though from his tone, it could just as easily have been self-talk.
Just then, his terminal rang. Needless to say, it could only be a call from his loyal adjutant, Lieutenant Colonel Rozers.
"Just as you foresaw with your lofty vision, the rapid-strike fleet under Lieutenant General Biffick is moving along the outer edge of this system, attempting to cut off our retreat. The main fleet is ready."
He seemed to have gotten used to slipping in the occasional compliment.
"That wasn't foresight on my part. I was just putting myself in their shoes. If I were an Imperial commander, I'd either do nothing at all or use the fastest, hardest-hitting units to block our way out. They have an overwhelming advantage in total numbers, after all."
Rozers nodded, then added, "However, Lieutenant General Biffick's force has stopped moving."
Yu Lian paused, then glanced at the targeting scope again. A wicked grin spread across his face. "I see. It really is an unexpected bonus."
"Sir?"
"Convey my order: the entire fleet is to depart in five minutes, as planned. Once we're clear of the fortress, deploy into formation immediately."
"And you..."
"You're worried I'll be late?"
The temporary control station for the fortress gun Yu Lian was operating stood in Area A, at the very front of the fortress. It was nearly a hundred kilometers from the fleet, ready to depart near the docks in Area D at the rear. Yet he wasn't