Two armored black luxury SUVs escorted by military police patrol units pulled smoothly along the curb behind the bench.
The vehicle doors parted in unison. Armed Honor Guard sentries in full dress uniform snapped instantly to attention, saluting with rigid, razor-sharp discipline as the rear passenger door of the lead Suburban opened.
Trent froze mid-breath, turning his head slightly while keeping the pistol aimed at the bench.
Stepping out onto the grass was a commanding figure with silver-streaked hair, wearing a four-star General's dress blue uniform adorned with medals, combat badges, and a crisp gold-trimmed service belt.
General Austin marched across the lawn, her sharp military boots striking the pavement with absolute authority as three senior colonels followed in step.
Chapter IV: The 4-Star Salute
Trent’s eyes lit up with misguided triumph. He turned toward the arriving brass, keeping his gun raised to make his report:
"General Austin! Sir! I have apprehended a non-compliant intruder who refused to obey armed military perimeter protocol—"