"First watch. Sector B-4 to E-2. Assignments are posted."
Chalon walked down the length of the temporary HQ, clipboard in hand, voice firm but quiet.
"Patrols are in pairs. You report anything tracks, lights, movement, even birds acting funny. No assumptions. No shortcuts."
He pointed to each man with a gloved finger.
"Delcourt with Faure. Rousseau with Girard. Lemaitre leading the E sector rotation."
Benoit raised a tentative hand. "Am I on watch or reserve?"
"You're on quiet, Private."
Benoit lowered his hand.
The men shuffled toward the ready line.
Gear was double-checked bayonets fastened, bolts oiled, straps secured, flares clipped, maps laminated and folded.
Sergeant Chalon gestured toward a small table covered in topographic maps and marked sectors.
