Slitherine

Really basic question. I try to order a unit to move in the general direction of the enemy, but the unit seems to want to do it in a way that will expose its flank to enemy fire.

Is there a way to specify intermediate squares for the path to follow so that at the end of its move the unit has its target in its full firing arc?

You don't have to move the unit's whole move in one go, but if you don't they will take into account any turns required for each stage, which may reduce the total move. Of course units are allowed one free 45 degree turn per move, so if their main move is a "knight's move", which inherently involves an angle of less than 45 degrees, the unit can still make a 45 degree turn at the end of its move.

A little experimentation will soon teach you what is possible and what isn't. Obviously it isn't always possible to move your units where you want, and also have them facing exactly the way you want at the end of the turn.