The Protectors

Chapter 4 - Mission Complete

The morning of the mission had arrived and Luna found herself with Marvin's team, making their way to the protector base camp that was closest to the ashenclaw base. Alongside Marvin, Jacob, and Klay, who held an A rank, as were there three other D-rank soldiers without any powers. Upon reaching the HQ, it was time to discuss the plan ahead. Marvin gathered the team inside a tent and initiated the conversation. "According to the scouts, their location is here," he pointed to a wooded area on the map displayed on the board. "Our mission is simple: gather as much intel as possible. If we find ourselves outnumbered, we retreat. If the situation allows, we will kill. However, the most crucial aspect is capturing any ashenclaw that appears to be aware. We've never successfully taken a hostage before, so this mission hinges on that. Speed is of the essence. We'll divide into two teams. The alpha team consists of me, Klay, and one D-rank soldier. The Bravo team includes Jacob, Luna, and two D-rank soldiers. "Once inside, we have one hour to regroup at the pickup point. If you're not there within that time frame, you'll be left behind. The maximum waiting time is five minutes. We'll be equipped with radio earphones for communication in case of any issues. Is that clear?" "Yes, sir," they all responded in unison. "Any questions?" Marvin inquired but received no response. "Are you sure there are no questions or uncertainties, guys?" he asked again. Luna, feeling nervous due to her previous mission's failure, nodded in affirmation. "Let's go," Marvin exclaimed, rallying the team.

After equipping themselves with their preferred weapons and necessary gear, they embarked on their journey. An hour later, they were dropped off at the outskirts of the woodland, where they had to continue on foot. Alpha team split up, with Klay soaring above the trees to gather valuable information using his unique ability of flight. Meanwhile, Jacob, Luna, and two D rankers ventured deeper into the woods. The atmosphere was eerily silent, prompting them to move cautiously and quietly. Luna, ever vigilant, kept a watchful eye on her surroundings and ensured the safety of the D rankers throughout their pursuit. As they delved further into the woods, the dense foliage made it increasingly challenging to spot anything in the distance. Suddenly, Jacob's heightened hearing picked up a sound, as a result of his adaptability power. "I hear something," he whispered to the team, his senses compensating for the reduced visibility. Gesturing for them to follow, he led them along a narrow trail. As they approached their destination, Jacob placed a finger over his lips, signaling silence. In the distance, a cave entrance beckoned, indicating their intended destination. "Wait here," he instructed the rest of the group as he went forward alone.

With a burst of energy, he sprinted towards the mouth of the cave. In a split second, an ashenclaw lunged at him from any area the others could not see, it was fiercely guarding the entrance. Swiftly, he unsheathed his knife, evading the creature's attacks for a nerve-wracking 20 seconds. Then, something clicked within him. He deciphered the ashenclaw's attacking pattern and deftly maneuvered closer, skillfully dodging every strike before plunging his blade into its throat. The ashenclaw crumpled to the ground. Signaling for the others to join him. "Are you okay?" Luna asked him as she stood in awe, unable to comprehend what she had just witnessed. She had struggled immensely with her encounter in Spain, but he had effortlessly destroyed this creature in less than a minute. He was on a whole different level. "I'm fine. This is it, their base. Get ready, everyone. We proceed with stealth, as a united team." They all nodded in agreement and cautiously ventured further into the cave, with Jacob leading the way.

As they ventured further into the cave, the noise grew louder and louder, echoing through the narrow pathway. Suddenly, they stumbled upon a junction with multiple paths. Just as they were contemplating which way to go, the sound of approaching footsteps reached their ears. Jacob urgently motioned for them to follow him down the left path, which opened up into a wider space with more hiding spots. Crouching behind some rocks, they observed four ashenclaws walking together. Jacob silently signaled for them to tail the creatures from a safe distance, leading them deeper into the cave illuminated by flickering firesticks.