Shattered Innocence

Shadows Unite

When we finally locate the others, they are waiting by the exit elevator, all dressed in sleek black attire. Yuri catches my eye and winks as he adjusts his matching leather jacket, exuding a confident aura. Mikhail stands beside him, donning a long-sleeved black shirt, slacks, and trainers. Ivan, having quickly changed en route, now sports a black denim jacket, trousers, and shirt. Zack, displaying his natural leadership, looks every bit the commander in utility pants tucked into black boots, complemented by a fitted black T-shirt that accentuates his formidable muscles.

"We look like the stealthy version of a well-dressed team," I playfully remark. "Perhaps we should have codenames and coordinated uniforms."

Yuri smirks and replies, "I'd go with Shadow for myself."

Zack interjects sharply, interrupting the banter. I turn to see four soldiers approaching us in formation. Though dressed in civilian clothes, their rigid movements and discomfort betray their apprehension. It's evident they aren't thrilled about working with us, just like they are with the general. Fantastic.

"We have received orders to accompany you," the soldier at the front states, graying hair and crow's feet marking his weathered face. He appears older and in charge, judging by the authority in his voice. "The general has made it clear that there should be no arguments. We are to proceed directly to the specified address and return to this bunker afterward. No deviations, no distractions. Our focus is solely on the mission." He narrows his eyes, anticipating resistance.

"Sir, understood, sir!" Yuri mocks, saluting him. "Shall we also undergo an extensive cavity search for tracking devices?"

The man narrows his eyes further and looks at Zack. "Ensure your team is disciplined, or I'll report that their presence is unnecessary."

A tense standoff unfolds between them, prompting an air of unease. Sensing the escalating tension, I step between them, determined to defuse the situation.

"We all have our roles to play, and they are crucial to the success of this mission," I assert firmly. "Without them, we cannot access the estate or the laboratory. While you may have received orders from the general, within these confines, we are in charge. So, mind your tone, remain silent, and follow our lead if necessary. Just don't impede our progress, toy soldiers."

"Watch your tongue, street rat, or we'll put you back where we found you," the soldier sneers, a remark that doesn't sit well with us. Immediately, I sense the shifting energy as my comrades move, positioning themselves protectively around me. They stand at my back and flank, a united front.

"Are we about to have a problem here?" Nikolay interjects sharply. "Because we can easily... resolve that."

His words hang in the air, heavy with the implication of a clear threat. Battle lines have been drawn, and the soldiers visibly shuffle, their hands instinctively reaching for their weapons. Fear flickers across their eyes and tenses their bodies. At that moment, an announcement crackles through the speaker, effectively diffusing the escalating tension.

"No fighting, just get the job done," the general's voice snarls. "Guess we'll have to work together, for now."

Louis mutters, "Men, lower your weapons." He includes me in his command, and I comply, shrugging nonchalantly and diverting my gaze. Zack moves to my side, his voice lowered as he reassures me.

"We'll keep a close eye on them. You don't need to worry, Nora. Just lead the way."

With a renewed sense of determination, I realize it's time to return to the place where it all began.