The morning sun cast long shadows across the open training field as soldiers from Clareo's ranks gathered in anticipation. Aurum and Rubra soldiers stood at attention, eyes fixed on the large, open-air stage where the infamous Team Unknown would soon make their appearance. Whispers spread among the ranks, each one speculating on the elite team's reputation—an event that was as rare as it was coveted in Clareo's military HQ.

Inside HQ's briefing room, Team Unknown prepared in silence, each member adjusting their gear, their faces concealed behind sleek, black masks.

Dr. Lewis stood at the front, arms crossed, looking them over with a faint smirk. The team was imposing—clad in Clareo's standard black combat uniforms, their rank pins prominently displayed on their chests. The chained-link insignias glittered faintly under the artificial lights, a silent declaration of their abilities and authority.

"Remember, keep this controlled," Dr. Lewis reminded, his gaze particularly firm on Ember. "These soldiers are Aurum and Rubra ranks—they're not used to the intensity you're used to, so ease them into it. This demonstration is two days long; don't traumatize them on the first day."

Ember chuckled, giving a mock salute. "Don't worry, Doc. I'll play nice," he replied with a smirk, clearly amused.

Riggs let out a laugh, shaking his head. "Yeah, because 'playing nice' is your specialty, right?"

Dr. Lewis sighed, ignoring the laughter as he addressed them with his usual composed authority. "The purpose of this demonstration isn't a showcase of power. The brass want these soldiers to gain tactical awareness and to recognize the kind of discipline it takes to handle high-stakes scenarios. They need to see how to operate as a cohesive unit, not just watch you bulldoze through obstacles."

Fon couldn't help but chuckle, looking at Ember. "So, no 'scare them till they cry' drills?"

"Let's keep it at a professional level," Dr. Lewis replied dryly, narrowing his gaze at Ember one last time. "Understood?"

Ember held up his hands, feigning innocence. "Crystal clear, Doc. Light training, just a little exercise."

Bo muttered under his breath to Val, "I'll believe that when I see it."

Val gave a slight smile, but his gaze stayed focused. "Let's do this right. The ARM rank alone is going to set them on edge, so we're going to need them at their sharpest."

With Dr. Lewis's last approving nod, Team Unknown turned and moved toward the exit, their footsteps echoing down the corridor.

The scene outside was one of barely contained awe and curiosity. The moment Team Unknown stepped out, the assembled soldiers went silent, eyes widening as they took in the mysterious figures approaching the stage. A ripple of murmurs ran through the crowd as the soldiers registered the chained pins glinting on each member's chest—three gold for the Aurum-ranked abilities and one black pin, the Ater Mors, the ARM rank.

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Several soldiers inhaled sharply, shuddering as the full weight of their rumors seemed to be confirmed. The presence of an ARM user among Team Unknown was a legend that most had dismissed as myth. But now, staring at the black pin pinned to Val's chest, they felt the chilling reality of it, a silent message that left even the seasoned Aurum soldiers feeling a rare pang of fear.

As Team Unknown reached the front, they stood with silent authority, their presence intimidating yet captivating. Ember's stance was loose and confident, his gaze sweeping across the audience as if he were scanning each one individually. Bo stood beside him, his posture relaxed but his eyes keen and sharp. Riggs and Fon flanked Val, each emanating their own aura of confidence and control. Val, his black pin unmistakable, was calm, his presence alone emanating power.

A soft murmur spread through the crowd, each soldier shifting uneasily as they registered the elite ranks before them. To their left, several Rubra-ranked soldiers were openly gaping at Val's ARM insignia, and a few muttered under their breath about the tales they'd heard—the stories of an ARM user who worked as the hidden shadow behind Clareo's operations.

It was Dr. Lewis who finally broke the silence, stepping up onto the podium with his usual composed authority. "Good morning, soldiers," he began, his voice calm yet carrying through the stillness. "You all know why you're here, and I'm sure you've heard the stories about Team Unknown."

A few soldiers exchanged knowing glances, their whispers tapering off as Dr. Lewis continued. "For the next two days, you will train alongside Clareo's elite. This is a rare opportunity, and not one to be taken lightly. Team Unknown has been the backbone of our most sensitive operations, and their experience in the field is unmatched."

Dr. Lewis paused, letting his words sink in before glancing over his shoulder at the assembled team. "This isn't a demonstration meant for entertainment. It's a test—a chance to push yourselves to the limits and see what true discipline and skill in combat look like."

He nodded to Ember, catching his eye. "And as I've reminded them, this is to be a controlled exercise."

Ember gave a half-smirk, rolling his eyes playfully beneath his mask, which earned him a slight shake of the head from Dr. Lewis. The soldiers closest to the front noticed the exchange, a faint murmur of laughter breaking the tension.

With the team introduced, Dr. Lewis turned back to the audience. "Team Unknown will lead you through various exercises, drills, and combat simulations. This will include scenario-based training, strategic exercises, and full combat simulations."

At the mention of "full combat simulations," a few soldiers shifted uneasily. They'd heard about Team Unknown's methods, and the thought of going head-to-head with even one member, let alone the entire team, was enough to make a few Rubra soldiers exchange nervous glances.

Dr. Lewis continued, unfazed. "There will be no shortcuts and no allowances. Team Unknown is here to push you past your limits, and you're expected to meet their standards. Every day, Clareo's military faces threats that demand the very best. This is your chance to see what that level of readiness looks like."

He gave a final nod to Team Unknown, signaling them to take their positions. "We'll begin with basic formations and warm-ups, followed by endurance drills. Pay attention, keep up, and remember: complacency isn't an option."

The soldiers nodded, squaring their shoulders as they moved into position.

Ember, already in the lead, turned toward the assembled soldiers, his voice ringing out loud and clear, carrying an almost teasing edge. "Alright, soldiers. Let's see what you're made of." He cast a quick glance at Val, giving him a slight nod. "Ready to push them?"

Val's voice was steady and unyielding. "Always."

The crowd shifted, some soldiers murmuring with excitement, others with trepidation. They had no idea what awaited them in the next two days, but one thing was certain: Team Unknown would give them an experience they wouldn't forget.

And as the team prepared to begin, the soldiers braced themselves, each one wondering if they had the strength to match the legends standing before them.