Checkmate 2: The Last Dance | Seongjoong [Book 2]

*VIII* (EDITED)

Chapter Eight

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The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the city in the deep hues of twilight as the team gathered in the VEU headquarters' command centre. The air was charged with a sense of purpose, a palpable anticipation that echoed through the room. Seonghwa stood among his teammates, a mixture of excitement and nervousness coursing through his veins. He was about to embark on his first official field mission with the VEU.

Director Kim's voice resonated through the command centre, his authoritative tone drawing the team's attention. "Team, listen up. Our priority is to contain and neutralise the vampire threat while minimising civilian exposure. Our information suggests that their activities are concentrated in the industrial district and near the harbour."

The team's leader, Eden, stood at attention, arms crossed over his chest as he nodded. "Understood, Director. We'll split into pairs and cover those areas. Maddox and Seonghwa will take the industrial district. Leez and I will head to the harbour."

Seonghwa's heart quickened as his name was mentioned. He exchanged a brief nod with Maddox, their shared determination evident. This was their opportunity to prove themselves, to demonstrate their worth as members of the team.

Director Kim's gaze swept over the team, his expression resolute. "Remember, teamwork and coordination are paramount. Seonghwa, trust in your training and your instincts. You're in capable hands with Maddox."

Seonghwa met the director's gaze with a nod, his resolve solidifying. He had spent years honing his skills, and now it was time to put them to the test.

Gear in hand, the team moved swiftly to the equipment room, where they donned their specialised gear. Seonghwa adjusted the straps of his tactical vest, feeling the weight of the responsibility he was about to undertake. The equipment felt familiar yet different, a tangible reminder of the gravity of their mission.

As they gathered near the exit, Eden addressed the team. "Stay vigilant, communicate effectively, and watch each other's backs. Let's head out and show these vampires that the VEU isn't to be taken lightly."

The team moved out into the city, their footsteps echoing in the empty streets. Seonghwa felt a surge of adrenaline as they approached the industrial district. The area was eerily quiet, the only sound being the distant hum of machinery. They moved cautiously, checking every corner and shadow for signs of vampire activity.

Suddenly, Maddox held up a hand, signalling for Seonghwa to stop. He pointed to a dark alley where a faint growling could be heard. Seonghwa gripped his weapon tightly, his senses on high alert. As they cautiously approached, they spotted a group of vampires feeding on a hapless victim.

Without hesitation, Seonghwa and Maddox sprang into action, their training kicking in. They moved with precision and speed, taking down the vampires before they could react. As the last vampire fell, Seonghwa felt a surge of triumph. They had succeeded in their mission, neutralising the threat and saving a life.

As they regrouped with the rest of the team, Seonghwa felt a sense of pride. He had proven himself in the field, earning the respect of his teammates and the director.

"Seonghwa. Here." Maddox's voice cut through the tension, accompanied by the weight of a rifle placed in Seonghwa's hands. The team filed out of the headquarters and into the cool embrace of the night air, a cloak of darkness descending over the city. Seonghwa's heart pounded in his chest, a symphony of excitement and apprehension orchestrating his every step. The journey to the industrial district was a procession marked by fleeting moments of silence, the distant hum of the city serving as an eerie overture.