‼️ PAUSED ‼️ ❝ 𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐎𝐅 𝐀 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐂𝐘 ❞ ~ [ᵂᵉˡᶜᵒᵐᵉ ᴴᵒᵐᵉ/ᴿᶠ ᵂᵃˡˡʸ ˣ ᴼᶜ]

[𝟐.] 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐌𝐞𝐧, 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦

"In life, there can be unsuspecting surprises waiting for you just around the corner, ready to remind you that the world is full of wonder and possibility."
  
   
              _______ 💉 ______
   
  
   
Vincent left the research lab, the weight of the folder in his hand matched only by the weight of his thoughts.   

As he walked, deep in contemplation, the distinct sound of boots clicking against the floor caught his attention.
He glanced up to see a group of men dressed in military gear, heavily armed to the bone, their presence an unexpected interruption.
 

 
  

One of the men, standing slightly ahead of the rest, raised his hand in a salute towards Vincent.
His brow furrowed, a mixture of confusion and surprise etching his features.
He wasn't accustomed to being saluted by armed personnel.
 
 

   

"Is there something I can help you with?" He asked, his tone cautious.
 
 

        
  

The saluting man maintained his posture, his expression serious as he stepped forward. "Vincent Zanyré?"  

       
Vincent nodded, still trying to make sense of the situation.
"Yes, that is me. What's going on here?"
 

             

"Apologies, sir. We've been informed of your presence by the Head Director. We're here to assist and follow your lead."

The armed man's gaze was unwavering underneath those goggles, though he didn't catch their response.
 

   

    
Vincent's eyes widened, disbelief coloring his expression.
"Assist me?" He repeated, incredulous.

"I never asked for any backup."
 

        

The armed men exchanged glances, then the same man responded,

"I understand, sir.
But it's been decided, as the order was issued by the Head Director himself.
You're to lead this group."
     
  
      
Vincent's eyes widened by the news.
The words that left the man's mouth were enough to cause a fright on anyone.
He has never led a team back then, and that is exactly what caused him to reconsider.
  
    
   
Hoping he can convince them, he says,

"There... Seems to be some misunderstanding here, perhaps you're looking for a different man with the same name as I had."
  
     
  
The soldier's demeanor remained unchanged.