"The eastern region ranks have arrived. Prepare yourselves." Jazz says.
We got back to the command center, everyone, onlookers and the rest of the Alasteer were already formed below, anticipating the upcoming meeting held by Jazz.
The meeting room buzzed with anticipation as the clock struck 6:00 PM. Outside the command center, the ranks of the Eastern region had assembled, their polished boots and synchronized steps creating an echo of unity. Through the reinforced glass windows, I could see them forming into perfect lines, their discipline evident in every movement.
Inside the command center, Jazz stood in the center platform, his aura, intimidating, his arms folded behind his back, surveying the scene below with a commanding presence. The blue neon lights illuminated his sharp features, casting him in a glow of authority that seemed almost untouchable.
The room itself reflected Alasteer's power—walls lined with holographic displays, each screen alive with streams of data, surveillance feeds, and tactical layouts. This was no ordinary meeting. This was the unveiling of Alasteer's strength to its core members.
With a sharp mechanical hiss, the reinfoced glass windows tucked beneath including the walls, revealing a platform where Jazz stood, us behind and a few top ranks. A calculated silence followed as the officers of the Eastern region entered, marching in unison and taking their positions below the headquarters.
Then, a camera was set to Jazz, relaying his face on the huge digital-billboard like screens, ensuring that everyone will see his face clearly. His presence demanded attention, and the room seemed to hold its collective breath.
Jazz took one step up the central platform, the neon lights of the command center cast a cool blue glow over his figure as he scanned the whole headquarters.
On what he's faced, is the thousands of Alasteer piled up looking at him, occupying the hallways, buildings, down below, stairs, and the top ranks on the command center all focused at him.
Behind him, was us watching. And several Alasteer came beside us, standing formally, I suppose with their badges displayed onto their chest, they are high ranking officers.
If that was me, I would've died of anxiety, but him, his gaze and aura was attractive. Seeing the back of your man being admired by a whole criminal organization, damn.
As the final officer stepped into place, Jazz began to speak, his voice resonating through the chamber.
"Loyalty. Honor. Strength," he started, his tone commanding yet laced with gravitas. "These are not just ideals—they are the foundation of Alasteer. They are the reasons we stand unbroken amidst the chaos of the world outside."
He paused, his eyes scanning the room, ensuring every individual felt the weight of his words.
"Our enemies are many, and they are relentless," he continued. "But so are we. We do not falter. We do not waver. And we do not fail. Each of you is here because you have proven yourselves—because you have shown the resilience, the courage, and the commitment that define this organization."
The officers stood straight, their pride palpable in the air.
"But this is not enough," Jazz said, his tone growing sharper. "Strength must be tested. Loyalty must be proven. And honor must be earned. As of today, we face new challenges—challenges that will demand everything from us. And I expect nothing less than excellence."
Behind me, I noticed Veloz watching Jazz, his usual sharp demeanor softened with admiration. Even Eugene, who often found ways to undercut tension with humor, stood in quiet respect.
