Extraction

The comms device crackled, breaking the silence. "Vanguard squad, this is HQ. We have a situation brewing. Report to coordinates 43.72, 122.39 for extraction."

Kael's eyes locked onto Ava, still sitting on the ground, her eyes fixed on the squad. "It looks like we've got a decision to make, kiddo. Are you coming with us, or do you want to take your chances alone?"

Ava's gaze darted between Kael and the squad, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "I...I'll come with you."

Maya raised an eyebrow. "You sure that's wise, Kael? We don't know anything about her."

Kael's expression remained firm. "We don't have time to debate. We've got a mission to complete. Let's gear up and move out."

The squad sprang into action, gathering their equipment and preparing for the mission. Kael's military training kicked in, guiding him through the familiar routine of pre-mission checks. He methodically inspected his rifle, ensuring it was in working order.

As they set out, Kael took point, his eyes scanning the surroundings for potential threats. The ruins were treacherous, with crumbling buildings and debris-filled streets. The squad moved in fluid formation, each member covering the others' backs.

The journey to the extraction point was grueling, navigating through rubble-filled streets and avoiding mutated creatures. Kael's senses were on high alert, his instincts screaming warning. He'd learned to trust his gut in situations like this.

As they walked, Kael couldn't help but notice Ava's gaze lingering on the squad's equipment. She seemed fascinated by the advanced technology and weaponry. Kael's instincts prickled – was she genuinely interested, or was she looking for weaknesses to exploit?

Finally, they reached the designated coordinates, a large, abandoned building. Kael's eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for signs of trouble. "HQ, this is Vanguard squad. We're on site," he reported, his voice low and steady.

The response was static-filled, but Kael's comms device picked up a faint message. "Vanguard...help... Echo-12... compromised..."

Kael's grip on his rifle tightened. "We've got a problem. Let's move in." He signaled to the squad, and they fanned out, securing the perimeter.

As they entered the building, Kael's senses went on high alert. The air was thick with tension, and he could feel the weight of the mission bearing down on him. He'd done this before, many times, but it never got any easier.

The squad moved cautiously, clearing rooms and searching for signs of Echo-12. Kael's training kicked in, guiding him through the familiar routine of combat readiness. But he couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

"Ava, stay close," he whispered, his eyes scanning the surroundings. "We don't know what we're up against."

Ava nodded, her eyes wide with fear. Kael's instincts screamed warning, but he pushed forward, determined to complete the mission.

The building seemed to stretch on forever, the silence oppressive. Kael's senses were on high alert, waiting for the slightest sign of trouble. And then, suddenly, they heard it – the sound of footsteps, echoing through the corridors.

Kael's heart rate quickened. "Get ready," he whispered. "We've got company."

The squad tensed, rifles at the ready. Kael's eyes locked onto the corridor, waiting for the first sign of movement. The footsteps grew louder, and Kael's finger tightened on the trigger.

A figure emerged from the shadows, rifle raised. Kael's training kicked in, and he swiftly assessed the situation. The figure was dressed in tattered clothing, their eyes wild with desperation.

"Echo-12?" Kael called out, his voice firm.

The figure hesitated, then nodded. "Y-yes. Please, you have to help us. They're coming for us."

Kael's instincts screamed warning, but he pushed forward. "We've got you. Let's move."

The squad swiftly escorted Echo-12 to the extraction point, Kael's senses on high alert for any signs of pursuit. As they reached the designated coordinates, Kael's comms device crackled to life.

"Vanguard squad, this is HQ. We've got incoming hostiles. Extract Echo-12 immediately."

Kael's grip on his rifle tightened. "We've got a problem. Let's move, now!"

The squad sprang into action, securing the perimeter and preparing to defend their position. Kael's training kicked in, guiding him through the familiar routine of combat readiness. But he couldn't shake the feeling that something was very wrong...

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***