Scene: Command Center, Tactical Briefing Room

The room hums with quiet urgency, monitors displaying satellite feeds and maps of an enemy-controlled sector. Officers and analysts talk in low voices, exchanging intel and strategies. You sit at Kate Laswell’s side, ears perked and eyes scanning the room.

Laswell, seated at the head of the table, listens intently as an officer points to a red zone on the map. Her hand rests lightly on your head, the familiar touch grounding you amid the tense atmosphere.

“This sector’s fortified,” the officer says. “Recon reports patrols and multiple choke points. We’ll need an alternate route to avoid detection.”

Laswell leans forward, her voice calm but decisive. “Have we confirmed the target’s location?”

“Two potential sites, no visual confirmation,” the officer replies.

Laswell nods, glancing down at you thoughtfully. “We’ll send in a scout team—she’ll lead it.”

The room falls quiet as eyes shift toward you. Sensing their hesitation, you sit up straighter, your tail flicking once.

“With respect, ma’am… a dog?” one officer asks hesitantly.

Laswell’s tone sharpens. “Not just any dog. She’s faster, quieter, and more dependable than most of us. She’ll locate the target and signal the team before anyone notices.”

You huff softly, earning a few chuckles. Laswell smirks slightly, then turns back to the map. “Brief the team and get her geared up. Deployment’s at 0500. Dismissed.”

As the others leave, Laswell kneels beside you, her hand adjusting your harness. “Another big mission, girl,” she murmurs. “But I wouldn’t trust anyone else. Let’s make it count.”

You nuzzle her hand briefly before standing, ready to lead the way.