“But …
“And especially,” Phule continued, dropping his voice, “if they were conducting themselves in a manner inconsistent with known behavior patterns. You’re losing it, Matthew. Cool down and we’ll try it again … from the top.”
O’Donnel wisely followed the advice, taking and releasing several long breaths before resuming the conversation.
“Am I to understand,” he said at last, “that you are refusing to relinquish the situation to the Regular Army?”
“That is correct, Major O’Donnel,” the Legion commander confirmed. “In my opinion, it still falls within our contracted services and is therefore our responsibility and ours alone. Simply put, it’s our fight, so back off.”
The major glanced at the waiting Eagles again.
“Seriously, Captain, are you sure you wouldn’t like to have my boys around-at least as a backup?
Phule wavered. There was no denying the benefits of having a team like the Red Eagles around.
“Would you be willing to serve as a reserve unit under my command?”
O’Donnel straightened slightly and saluted.
“If that’s the only way we can be included in this waltz, then yes, sir! Reporting for duty, sir.”
It was far from an unconditional surrender, and everyone present knew there would be a reckoning later on. Still, if O’Donnel said he would take orders from the Legion, then his word would be good … at least until the engagement was over.
“Very well, Major,” Phule said, returning the salute with equal formality, “then I want you to take your force and pull back about two hundred meters. I’ll let you know when and if we need you … and thanks.”