Chapter 235: A Moonlit Rescue

**Aldrich’s POV** When Dorothy informed me that the mind link had been severed, I knew immediately that something had gone horribly wrong. The situation was spiraling out of control, and time was running out. I decided without hesitation that we had to launch a rescue mission, but Master Mary intercepted me, her sharp eyes betraying no emotion. “General Aldrich,” she said firmly, emphasizing my title as if to ground me in responsibility, “you need to calm yourself. Charging in without understanding the enemy’s strength or intentions is a reckless move. You’re responsible for the safety of the members stationed at the bases and in the ruins. If you leave now, chaos will ensue. It won’t help anyone, least of all Thelma.” I understood the logic in her words. She was right. Our team needed structure and leadership more than ever. But her reasoning did nothing to dull my resolve. The thought of Thelma in danger, at the mercy of those treacherous humans, was unbearable. Gritti