Chapter 90: Momentum

The midday sun bore down mercilessly on San Ignacio as the Amerathian forces solidified their control. Lieutenant Andrew Hayes stood in the command tent, tracing his finger along the map spread out before him. Each line represented a potential route deeper into Mexican territory, each marker a known enemy garrison or supply hub. The town was quiet for now, but Hayes knew the reprieve wouldn't last.

"Sergeant Caldwell," Hayes called, his voice steady but firm.

Caldwell entered the tent, his uniform smudged with dust and sweat. "Yes, sir?"

Hayes straightened, his hand still resting on the map. "We've received new orders from command. The push south is to continue immediately. Our next target is the garrison at Villa Roja."

Caldwell frowned, leaning over the map to inspect the location. "Villa Roja… fortified town, about twelve miles south of here. Reports say it's heavily defended."