Chapter 8 - The Price of Ignorance
The General stepped closer to Rourke, his four silver stars catching the sunlight.
"You did not merely breach basic military courtesy today, Sergeant," the General continued, his voice sharp as a razor. "You physically assaulted an executive official inside a secure Department of Defense facility because you believed your uniform granted you the right to intimidate civilians. That behavior is a disgrace to the United States Marine Corps."
"I... I deeply apologize, Dr. Mercer! Sir!" Rourke stammered, his confident demeanor entirely shattered. "I had no knowledge of your position—"
"That is precisely the problem, Sergeant," Eleanor interrupted smoothly, taking a step toward him. She removed her hand from inside her jacket pocket, allowing her gray blazer to settle, the dark coffee stain still prominently displayed across her chest.
"You treat authority as something that only exists when it wears a uniform you recognize," Eleanor said, her hazel eyes locking onto his trembling frame. "You assume that anyone without rank insignia is beneath your respect. That is not just poor manners, Sergeant—that is a critical flaw in tactical judgment."
She looked at the General. "General, I believe Gunnery Sergeant Rourke requires a immediate refresher on military protocol, civilian oversight authority, and basic situational awareness."
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"Consider it done, Dr. Mercer," the General replied without a second's hesitation. He turned his head slightly toward two armed Military Police officers standing near the entrance of the cafeteria, gesturing with his hand. "MPs. Escort Gunnery Sergeant Rourke to the Security Detachment headquarters immediately. Place him on administrative hold pending a formal inquiry into misconduct and physical assault of a senior civilian official."
The two Shore Patrol officers moved instantly, their heavy boots echoing as they grabbed Rourke’s arms, escorting the pale, speechless Marine out of the dining hall.
