Chapter 69: Final Exercise.

A few weeks had passed since Mara’s visit, and the energy in the camp had shifted as Phoenix Squad focused on one thing: the final exercise. With Ren still recovering from his injury, the rest of the squad had been pushing themselves harder, knowing they’d be one member down. The constant drills and strategy sessions had forged them into an even more determined unit.

Today, however, there was a sense of anticipation buzzing through the air. They were finally on their way to the ultimate test. This wasn’t just another exercise—this was their chance to solidify their place at the top of the leaderboard.

The morning mist clung to the trees, wrapping the dense forest in a ghostly veil as Phoenix Squad sat in the back of the old truck that bounced along the rugged trail. The truck groaned with each bump, its engine protesting under the strain of the steep climb ahead. The smell of pine and wet earth mixed with the crisp morning air, carrying with it the sharp bite of the approaching cold season.

Ava sat near the back of the truck, her fingers gripping the edge of the seat as they neared their destination. She could feel the familiar weight of responsibility settle on her shoulders, the sense that this was it—the culmination of all their training. She glanced around at the squad, her squad—Talon, Lucas, Jess, and Miko—each of them mentally preparing for what lay ahead.

“Come on, baby, just a little further! We deserve a break at the top, right?” the driver muttered under his breath, his knuckles white as he gripped the wheel. The old truck, known affectionately as “Bessie,” lurched and groaned as it struggled to crest the steep hill.

The trainer sitting in the front seat turned with a smirk, pulling a face that made Jess stifle a laugh. “You’ll get used to her grumblings. Old Bessie’s seen more of these hills than any of us.”

Ava exchanged a grin with Talon, who leaned over with a conspiratorial wink. Despite the tension, there was still room for lighthearted moments, something that Phoenix Squad excelled at, even in the most intense situations.

Finally, Bessie crested the hill, coming to a shuddering stop. The driver let out a relieved sigh as he stepped out, stretching his back. “We’re here. Alright, all out! Old girl’s earned her break.”

The squad hopped out of the truck, their movements sharp and efficient as they grabbed their gear. The early morning light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows across the ground. The air was cold enough to make their breath visible, but it did nothing to dampen the fire burning within them.

“Phoenix, gather round,” the trainer called, her tone now all business. Ava felt the squad shift around her, the lightness from the truck ride melting away as they gathered in a tight circle around the trainer. This was the moment they’d been waiting for.

“You’re currently in second place on the leaderboard,” the trainer began, her gaze sweeping across each member of the squad. “This exercise is your chance to top that list, depending on how the other squads perform. But if I know you lot, you’re aiming for first.”

Ava and the others exchanged looks. Second place wasn’t good enough—not for Phoenix Squad.

The trainer handed out maps, her expression serious. “Here’s your route. You’ve got seven days to make it from here to your extraction point. If you march straight through, you could make it in three days. But the more objectives you complete along the way, the more points you earn. Use your time wisely.”

Ava unfolded her map, quickly scanning the terrain. The route was long and winding, with various checkpoints and objectives marked in red. It wouldn’t be easy, but nothing about this training had been.

“There are emergency radios at specific checkpoints,” the trainer continued. “If something goes wrong, you can call for help. But know this—if you use that radio, you fail the mission. No exceptions.”

Lucas raised an eyebrow, his smirk betraying his confidence. “Sounds simple enough.”

The trainer’s eyes gleamed with amusement. “You think so? Well, there’s one more thing.” She paused, letting the tension build. “By the second day, expect company.”

Ava frowned. “Company?”

The trainer nodded. “First-year Cadets will be hunting you. Their job is to slow you down or capture you. Your job is to outmaneuver them and stay ahead. If they catch you, you lose points.”

Lucas’s smirk faltered slightly. “Wait... a live pursuit?”

“We like to keep things interesting,” the trainer said with a grin. “This is your final challenge—don’t expect it to be easy.”

The weight of the task settled over them. Ava glanced at her squad. They had trained for this, prepared for every scenario. But the added pressure of being hunted was new. It would test their teamwork, their strategies, and their endurance.

The trainer took a step back, her expression softening just a little. “This is it. Your last gear check—make sure everything is in order. Once you’re out there, it’s all on you. Good luck, Phoenix. Make us proud.”

Ava felt the familiar pulse of adrenaline as she adjusted the straps on her pack and checked the security of her knife. Around her, the others followed suit—Miko adjusting his rig, Jess testing her knife’s balance, Lucas double-checking the map.

“Alright,” Ava said, her voice steady as she looked at each of them. “This is our moment. Let’s show them what Phoenix is made of. Phoenix on three?”

They gathered closer, their hands reaching out to form a circle. The air was thick with determination.

“One, two, three—Phoenix!”

Their voices rang out in unison, cutting through the cold air with a power that made Ava’s heart swell. She felt a surge of pride for her squad, for the bond they had formed through every trial and challenge.

Chapter 70:

As they stepped away from the truck and into the dense forest, the mood shifted. The lightheartedness of their earlier banter gave way to focused intensity. The wilderness stretched out before them, vast and unforgiving, a silent test of their strength, endurance, and will.

Ava adjusted the weight of her pack as they moved deeper into the trees, the thick fog clinging to the undergrowth. The path ahead was treacherous, but Phoenix Squad was ready. They had to be.

The thick canopy of trees stretched endlessly overhead as Phoenix Squad delved deeper into the wilderness. The air was cool, sharp with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the underbrush was thick with ferns and tangled roots that made each step deliberate and calculated. The further they moved from the drop-off point, the more the outside world seemed to fade away, swallowed by the silence of the forest.

Talon led the way, his eyes sharp as they scanned the terrain, picking out subtle landmarks that only someone with his experience would notice. He moved with the confidence of someone who had lived his whole life among nature, his posture relaxed but alert, every step calculated.

“These signs can tell you a lot about who or what passed by and when,” Talon explained, his voice low but steady as he pointed out a series of disturbed leaves. “It’s like reading a story written in the dirt.”

Lucas, always quick to find a connection to his own world, glanced down at the trail Talon was indicating, his brow furrowed in concentration. “I’m more used to reading books, but this is fascinating too. It’s like a live-action survival manual.”

Talon smirked, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Not everything’s in the books, Lucas. Sometimes the land speaks for itself—you just have to learn how to listen.”

As they walked, Talon shared stories from his past, little anecdotes about his adventures with his father—each one laced with survival tips and natural lore. His voice was soft, almost nostalgic, as he recounted the long days and nights spent tracking game or navigating dense forests, and the patience those experiences had taught him.

“One time, we tracked a deer for two days straight,” Talon said, his tone light but purposeful. “Just following broken twigs and hoof prints. Patience is everything in the wild.”

Ava, walking just behind him, listened intently. His words brought back her own memories—those long treks with Ethan, where all they had was their wits and the landscape to guide them. She could still remember the exhaustion, the hunger, but also the sense of accomplishment that came with overcoming those trials.

“It reminds me of a trek I did with Ethan,” Ava said quietly, her voice carrying a reflective tone. “We had nothing but the land to guide us. Tough times, but good memories.”

Talon nodded in understanding, his eyes briefly meeting hers. There was something unspoken between them, a shared understanding that only came from surviving the hardest of challenges together.

As they moved deeper into the wilderness, Talon spotted a good opportunity to break for their first task. They had been walking for hours, the day slowly slipping into afternoon, and they needed to start thinking about both food and objectives.

He raised a hand, signaling the group to stop. “Alright, we’re in a good spot here. Jess, let’s set up some snares—good wind, plenty of cover. We might be able to catch ourselves something for dinner.”

Jess nodded, her expression focused but excited. “Got it, Talon. Let’s catch us dinner.”

Talon and Jess broke off from the group, moving into the denser part of the forest to set up traps, while Ava led Lucas and Miko toward their first objective. The air between them was light but focused, each of them knowing that time was of the essence but feeling the underlying pressure of the mission.

“Keep your eyes peeled,” Ava instructed, her voice low but firm as they moved through the underbrush. “Anything could be a marker or a clue. We can’t afford to miss anything.”

After what felt like hours of searching, Lucas spotted the objective first. His eyes lit up as he crouched beside a small, weathered box hidden beneath a cluster of rocks. He brushed aside some of the dirt, revealing a locked case.

“Here’s the box!” Lucas exclaimed, pulling it free from its hiding spot. “Looks like it’s locked with a code.”

Ava knelt beside him, her fingers tracing the lock. “Check the map piece. It might have a clue to the code.”

As they worked together to solve the puzzle, Ava noticed Miko glancing off in the direction where Jess and Talon had gone, his expression thoughtful.

Miko leaned closer to Ava, his voice low. “Jess and I found something similar during one of our classes. She’s... she’s really good at this stuff.”

There was something in Miko’s tone—something more than just admiration for Jess’s skills. Ava looked at him out of the corner of her eye, her brow furrowing slightly. “You two have been spending a lot of time together lately. Everything alright?”

Miko hesitated for a moment, his gaze drifting toward the trees. “Yeah,” he said softly. “It’s all good. Just figuring things out.”

Ava didn’t press, but she couldn’t ignore the subtle shift in his demeanor. There was something brewing between him and Jess, and she wondered if that unspoken tension would come to a head before this exercise was over.

By the time Talon and Jess returned, carrying a few rabbits. Jess was grinning, her hands now expertly cleaning the freshly caught game, while Talon worked on building a small fire to cook over. The group gathered around, their earlier tension easing slightly as they settled in for the night.

The smell of freshly cooked rabbit filled the air, “I hope everyone’s hungry,” Jess said as she stirred the pot over the fire. “Rabbit stew coming right up.”

Ava joined Talon on the outskirts of the camp, her eyes scanning the map in her lap as they discussed strategy for the next day. The flames of the fire flickered between them, casting shadows across their faces as they leaned in close, their voices low.

“We need to prioritize tomorrow’s objectives,” Ava murmured, pointing to a few key markers on the map. “If we push through these two first, we’ll stay ahead of schedule. The other squads will likely fall behind, especially with the Cadets hunting us.”

Talon nodded in agreement, his gaze sharp. “If we stay ahead of the game, they won’t be able to catch us. We need to keep moving, stay unpredictable.”

As they ate, the atmosphere around the fire softened. Laughter echoed in the small clearing, and for a moment, it felt like just another night under the stars. But even in the light-hearted conversation, there were undercurrents of something more—especially between Jess and Miko.

Jess passed Miko a bowl of stew, her fingers brushing his lightly as she handed it over. “Here, you earned it today,” she said, her voice warm.

Miko smiled at her, his eyes lingering for a moment longer than necessary. “Thanks, Jess,” he replied softly. “It’s... it’s nice been out here.”

The others, lost in their own conversations, didn’t seem to notice the quiet exchange between them, but Ava did. She exchanged a glance with Talon, both of them reading the subtle shift in dynamics. There was no denying the connection between Jess and Miko, but they both knew that closeness could complicate things—especially when the stakes were this high.

Meanwhile In another part of the forest, Brison’s squad was setting up camp for the night. The mood there was cold, a stark contrast to the warmth and camaraderie of Phoenix Squad. Brison stood by the fire, his sharp gaze fixed on the map spread out before him, his fingers tracing the terrain as he plotted.

“They’re getting too comfortable,” Brison muttered, his voice carrying a dark edge. “Let’s see how well they sleep tonight. Tomorrow, we hunt.”

His squad gathered closer, their faces twisted with grim determination. They had one goal: to take down Phoenix Squad. The plan was set, and the hunt would begin with the rising sun.

As the night deepened, Phoenix Squad began to settle in for sleep, the fire crackling softly as the forest around them fell into an eerie silence. Despite the contentment of a day’s success, there was an underlying anxiety in the air—a knowledge that tomorrow would bring new challenges, new threats.

Ava lay back on her bedroll, her fingers idly tracing the bracelet on her wrist as she stared up at the canopy of trees overhead. Tomorrow would be a different kind of test, and she knew they needed to be ready for whatever came their way.

Unseen by Phoenix Squad, the wilderness around them seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the next move in this dangerous game of survival.

Chapter 71:

The early morning air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, the first light of dawn casting a pale glow over the camp. Ava stirred quietly, pulling herself from the warmth of her bedroll and taking a moment to breathe in the stillness. The peace of the wilderness was a deceptive thing, she knew, but for now, it was a welcome reprieve.

“Time to get moving, guys,” Ava called softly, her voice cutting through the early morning mist. One by one, her squad came to life. Lucas, as usual, was the first to groan in protest, his face buried beneath his blanket.

“Tell me again why people enjoy sleeping outdoors,” Lucas muttered, his voice muffled by the fabric. “I miss my bunk.”

Talon, already up and packing, let out a hearty laugh, clapping Lucas on the back. “By the end of this, Lucas, you’ll be a wilderness expert. You might even learn to appreciate a good campfire and fresh air.”

Lucas shot him a look but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at the corner of his mouth. “I’ll take your word for it.”

As the squad began packing up their gear, Ava moved over to Jess, who was adjusting her rucksack with a look of mild frustration. “Here, let me help,” Ava offered, adjusting the straps so they fit snugly and comfortably.

Jess flashed her a grateful smile. “Thanks, Ava. I swear, no matter how many times I fix this thing, it always feels off.”

Ava gave a knowing look, her gaze briefly flicking over to Miko, who was securing his pack nearby. “And remember,” she said quietly to Jess, “we’ve got to keep things professional out here.” The subtle reminder was more of a protective gesture than anything, but Jess nodded in understanding.

“We’re good, Ava,” Jess reassured her, though the faint warmth that crossed her face didn’t escape Ava’s notice.

With their gear packed and the morning routine completed, the squad set off once more into the rugged wilderness. The terrain was unforgiving—thick underbrush tangled at their feet, and the rocky paths forced them to slow their pace. Talon took the lead as usual, his eyes scanning the landscape for anything that might be of use to them.

“This shortcut through the rough ground might help shake off any followers,” Talon suggested, pointing toward a narrow path that wound through the dense trees and over jagged rocks. His voice held the quiet authority of someone who knew the land well.

Ava glanced at the route and nodded, trusting Talon’s instinct. “Good call. If it saves us time, it’ll be worth it.”

As they moved through the forest, the mood lightened, with laughter and stories filling the air. Talon regaled the squad with tales from his adventures in the wild—stories of tracking animals through rough terrain and surviving off the land with his father. His voice carried a sense of nostalgia that brought smiles to their faces.

Ava, feeling the camaraderie, even shared a rare story of her own. “Ethan and I once spent two weeks on the road with nothing but a map and the stars to guide us,” she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. “We were hungry, exhausted, but... those were some of the best days I’ve had.”

Jess grinned at her. “Sounds like you’ve got some stories to rival Talon’s.”

Ava chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Maybe one or two.”

By late morning, Phoenix Squad reached their next objective. The sight that greeted them immediately set them on edge. The box that should have held crucial information for their next task lay shattered on the ground, its wooden slats splintered, as if someone had deliberately smashed it.

Lucas crouched beside the wreckage, his brow furrowed in confusion. “This doesn’t look like an accident. Too clean for an animal hit.”

Talon knelt beside him, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the ground for clues. He frowned deeply as he examined the tracks around the site. “These aren’t just random footprints,” he muttered, his voice low and serious. “They’re fresh, human tracks. Someone’s been here recently—and they wanted to slow us down.”

Ava’s gut twisted. Sabotage. “Could it have been another squad?” she asked, though she could already sense something more calculated was at play.

Talon’s gaze swept over the area, taking in every detail. “Maybe. But this doesn’t feel like random damage. It’s too deliberate.”

Ava could see the tension rising in the group and quickly decided to keep their suspicions contained for now. “Let’s not jump to conclusions just yet,” she said, her voice firm. “We move on and keep this between us. For all we know, it could’ve been another squad ahead of us.”

Talon nodded, though an uneasy silence settled over him as they continued their journey.

Chapter 72:

Later that afternoon, Talon and Lucas ventured deeper into the woods, the quiet settling in as they scouted for a good location to set traps. Talon, his gaze sharp and focused, scanned the landscape with practiced ease, finding areas where animals might pass through. Lucas followed closely, carrying the gear, his mind on the task but still uneasy after the morning’s discovery.

“I’ve got a good feeling about this spot,” Talon said, crouching down and motioning for Lucas to join him. “We’ve got fresh tracks here, and the wind’s in our favor.”

Lucas, though less experienced in the wilderness, trusted Talon’s instincts completely. “Just tell me what to do,” he said, his voice steady.

Talon worked quickly, teaching Lucas how to set the snares with precise motions, his hands moving deftly as he explained each step. “Patience is the key,” Talon said, his tone low. “It’s all about positioning. We’ll leave these here and check back before nightfall.”

Lucas nodded, setting the last trap with careful attention. “Got it.”

With the traps set, they made their way back to camp, the weight of the day’s work heavy in their steps. But when they returned later to check on the traps, a knot of unease formed in Talon’s gut. He knelt down beside one of the snares, finding it sprung but empty. Moving to the next, the same thing. And the next.

Out of six traps, only one had worked.

“This doesn’t make sense,” Talon muttered, his brow furrowing deeply. “This many traps failing? That never happens. Not unless someone’s been messing with them.”

Lucas, sensing Talon’s growing concern, knelt beside him, scanning the area. “What do you think? Could it be animals, or...?”

Talon’s eyes narrowed as he rose to his feet, scanning the ground around them. The forest was still, too still. His gaze locked on a patch of disturbed earth nearby, and he moved quickly to inspect it. Fresh tracks—human tracks—leading in and out of their trap line.

Talon’s voice was quiet but edged with tension. “It’s not animals. Someone’s been here.”

By the time Talon and Lucas returned to camp, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest floor. They had only managed to catch one rabbit—a small success, but nothing compared to what they had hoped for.

Ava met Talon’s gaze as they set up the fire for the night, her expression concerned. She pulled him aside, her voice a quiet whisper. “You think someone’s sabotaging us?”

Talon nodded, his face grim. “Yeah. And I found more tracks—fresh ones. Someone’s been following us.”

Ava glanced back at the camp where Jess and Miko were preparing the small rabbit for dinner. She felt a weight settle in her chest. “Scout ahead tomorrow,” she whispered. “We need to know who we’re dealing with. If someone’s targeting us, we need to be ready.”

Talon’s eyes hardened with determination. “I’ll check the perimeter before we move out.”

As the group settled in for the evening, the atmosphere around the campfire was more subdued than it had been earlier. Jess and Miko sat close together, stealing quiet moments of comfort from each other, while the rest of the squad shared the rabbit and their rations.

Ava watched them from the edge of the camp, her mind racing with possibilities. Someone was out there, watching them, sabotaging their efforts. But why? And who?

Lucas took the last watch, his eyes scanning the darkness as the fire crackled softly behind him. Talon’s words echoed in his mind, and he found himself straining to listen for any sound that might betray the presence of their unseen enemy.

The night stretched on, and though nothing stirred in the forest, the tension was palpable. Phoenix Squad knew they were being hunted—they just didn’t know by whom.

Chapter 73: Could Have Been a Bear.

The first rays of dawn barely pierced the thick canopy of trees when the camp erupted into chaos.

“Lucas! Where the hell is your pack?” Talon’s furious voice cut through the crisp morning air, jolting everyone awake. His booming shout echoed through the clearing, laced with a barely contained fury that made the entire squad sit up with alarm.

Lucas scrambled out of his bedroll, his eyes wide with confusion as he frantically searched the ground where his pack had been. “I...I don’t know,” he stammered, panic seeping into his voice. “It was right here when I fell asleep.”

Talon, livid, stormed across the clearing, his heavy boots crunching on the frost-laden earth. He towered over Lucas, his face flushed with anger, fists clenched. “You were supposed to be on watch, Lucas! How can you not notice someone taking your pack right from under your nose? That pack had half our rations!”

The rest of the squad, now fully alert, hurriedly began checking their own belongings. The tension in the air was thick, palpable, as they realized the gravity of what had happened. Jess, her voice shaky with panic, called out, “My coat is gone too!”

Ava, her senses sharp despite the abrupt wake-up, quickly took charge. She stepped forward, her voice commanding but calm. “Everyone, gear check now. We can’t afford any more losses.”

While the others scrambled to assess their remaining supplies, Lucas stood frozen, his face pale, guilt written across every line of his expression. “I must’ve... I must’ve fallen asleep,” he admitted, his voice breaking. “I didn’t mean to—I just…”

Talon didn’t let him finish. His voice was cold, cutting through Lucas’s words with scorn. “Falling asleep could get us killed out here, Lucas! This isn’t some training drill back at base. We’re in the wild, and predators—whether human or otherwise—are just waiting for a chance like this.”

The accusation hung in the air, the weight of Talon’s words sinking into the group like stones. They all knew he was right. The wilderness was unforgiving. Mistakes like this could have far-reaching consequences.

Miko, always the calm mediator, stepped between Talon and Lucas, his voice firm but measured. “Talon, yelling isn’t going to bring the pack back. What’s done is done. We need to focus on what’s next.”

Ava, sensing the situation spiraling out of control, moved closer to Talon. She spoke in a low voice, one meant just for him, her tone firm but empathetic. “Talon, I need you to cool down. We all rely on each other here. Lucas made a mistake—he knows it. We can’t fall apart over this.”

Talon’s chest heaved with heavy breaths, his hands still balled into fists as he glared at the ground. “Ava, you didn’t see the things I’ve seen,” he said through gritted teeth, his voice thick with frustration. “A simple mistake like falling asleep can turn deadly out here. It could have been a bear last night, or worse.”

Ava placed a hand on his arm, grounding him. “I know, Talon. That’s why we need to stay sharp and work together. We can’t afford to turn on each other. We need you to lead, not to alienate. How about you scout ahead? See if you can track whoever took the pack.”

Talon’s shoulders tensed, his jaw tight, but Ava’s calm presence began to break through his anger. With a reluctant nod, he exhaled sharply, letting some of his frustration dissipate. “Alright, I’ll take a look around. But Lucas...” Talon turned, fixing the younger member with a hard stare, his tone stern. “You need to wake up. You’re not in a library anymore. You’re in the wasteland.”

Lucas, still shaken, nodded miserably. His eyes met Talon’s briefly before dropping to the ground, shame weighing heavily on him. “I’ll carry extra weight,” Lucas said, his voice thick with remorse. “I’ll do whatever it takes to make this right.”

Ava softened, offering Lucas a small, reassuring smile. “Just learn from this. We all need to be alert, every one of us. We’ll figure this out together.”

Talon grabbed his knife and set off into the forest, his footsteps quiet as he moved away from the camp. His anger simmered beneath the surface, but Ava’s words stayed with him. He couldn’t let his frustration blind him to the task at hand. He scanned the ground, searching for any sign of who—or what—had taken their gear.

As he moved deeper into the wilderness, he spotted something. Faint tracks in the dirt, barely visible in the soft morning light. Talon knelt, inspecting the marks. They were human, and fresh. Whoever had been here, they’d taken their time. His jaw tightened. This wasn’t just an accident. Someone had deliberately taken their things, and it wasn’t some wandering scavenger.

The camp was eerily quiet as Talon scouted the perimeter. The usual lighthearted banter of the squad was absent, replaced by an uneasy silence. Jess was unusually quiet as she rolled up her bedroll, her movements mechanical, while Miko threw worried glances her way.

Lucas, meanwhile, moved with a heaviness to his step as he packed what was left of his gear. The guilt weighed on him like a physical burden. His mistake had put the entire squad at risk.

“I should’ve stayed awake,” Lucas murmured, more to himself than anyone else. “I don’t know what happened…”

Miko, sensing Lucas’s distress, placed a firm hand on his shoulder. “We’ve all made mistakes out here. What matters is how you handle them moving forward.”

Jess, overhearing their conversation, shot Lucas a sympathetic look. “Miko’s right, Lucas. None of us are perfect out here. Just… let’s be more careful from now on, okay?”

Lucas nodded, grateful for their words but still feeling the sting of Talon’s anger. He knew he had let them down. Now, he had to find a way to make it right.

When Talon returned, the look on his face was grim. He found Ava near the edge of the camp, her eyes scanning the horizon, waiting for his report. “Find anything?” she asked, her voice low but steady.

“Fresh tracks,” Talon said, his voice tight. “Human. Whoever took the pack was watching us. They knew what they were doing.”

Ava’s brow furrowed. “Cadets?” she asked, her voice laced with suspicion. The idea that they could already be hunted by the older trainees made her uneasy.

Talon shrugged, though his eyes were dark with thought. “Maybe. Probably. I don’t know. It could be them—or someone else trying to mess with us.”

Ava exhaled slowly, her mind already calculating their next move. “Alright. We keep moving, but we stay sharp. No more mistakes.”

In a hidden spot not far from where Phoenix Squad had set up camp, Brison crouched low, watching the scene unfold with a cruel smirk plastered across his face. His eyes glittered with satisfaction as he observed the tension, the panic that had rippled through their ranks.

“Perfect,” he whispered to a fellow cadet who crouched beside him, equally pleased. “They’re rattled. Just like we wanted.”

His accomplice grinned. “What’s next?”

Brison’s smirk deepened, his mind already plotting the next move. “Now, we see how they handle real pressure.”

The day ahead loomed with uncertainty as Phoenix Squad packed up and prepared to move out. The usual camaraderie that held them together felt shaken, each of them quietly wrestling with their own thoughts. There was a new edge to their movements, a new weight in their steps. They were being hunted—not just by the wilderness, but by someone who wanted to see them fail.

Chapter 74:

As they set off once more into the rugged terrain, Ava cast a glance at each of her squad members, her determination hardening. They would make it through this. They had to.

But the thin line between safety and danger was beginning to blur, and Phoenix Squad was about to be pushed to their limits

The air was thick with tension as Phoenix Squad prepared to move out. The sky, still heavy with dark clouds, threatened to release more rain at any moment. Jess, adjusting her pack, noticed something draped over it.

“Talon left his coat?” she asked, frowning.

Ava glanced over, a small smile tugging at her lips. “No, I think he figured you might need it more.” She helped Jess adjust the straps of the coat, making sure it fit snugly over her shoulders. “Alright, everyone ready? Let’s get moving.”

They set off, following the uphill path Talon had marked earlier. The terrain was rough, full of jagged rocks and muddy slopes, and Lucas, as usual, let out a groan as they started the climb. “Why is it always uphill?”

Miko, walking just behind him, shot Lucas a sharp look. “Really? After everything that’s happened, you’re gonna complain about this?”

Ava, walking ahead of them, turned slightly, her voice calm but firm. “Cut it out, both of you. What’s done is done. Let’s just focus on moving forward.”

The squad moved in silence, the sound of their boots crunching on the wet earth the only noise. As they progressed further uphill, the first drops of rain began to fall. It started slowly, a light drizzle, but soon thickened into a steady downpour, soaking them within minutes.

“Great,” Jess muttered, pulling the hood of Talon’s coat tighter around her head.

Lucas looked miserably at his sodden clothes. “I had two ponchos in my pack…”

Ava, trying to keep spirits up, called back over the rain, “We’ll make do. Look at Miko and Jess—they’re sharing one poncho.”

Jess laughed despite the situation, huddling closer to Miko. “Yeah, problem solved.”

As they continued through the forest, Ava’s mind raced. The theft of Lucas’s pack and Jess’s coat still didn’t sit right with her. Cadets might have done it just to make things harder, but the whole situation felt too deliberate. Ethan’s old advice echoed in her head: *If it doesn’t feel right, trust your gut.*

After a few hours of hard hiking, Ava motioned for the squad to stop. “Hold up, everyone.”

Talon, who had been keeping an eye on their surroundings, moved closer to her, his face set with determination. Ava met his gaze, her tone low but commanding. “Talon, I need you to scout ahead. The terrain’s getting rough, and with the rain, it’ll slow us down. We need to know what we’re walking into.”

Talon nodded, not needing any more explanation. He crouched down, pulling out the map and a pencil from his pack. “Here,” he said, marking a few key points on the map, showing her a more efficient route through the hills. “Follow this path—there’s a high ridge here.” He tapped a spot with the pencil. “It’ll give you good visibility and keep you out of the lowlands where the water’s pooling.”

Ava leaned in, watching him work with intense focus. The rain dripped steadily off the hood of her coat, but she didn’t flinch. She trusted Talon’s instincts implicitly. “Got it,” she said, folding the map and tucking it into her jacket. “Be careful out there.”

Talon gave her a brief smile, his usual humor softened by the seriousness of the situation. “Always.”

He adjusted his pack, pulling up his hood, and with one last look at the group, he disappeared into the thick trees, moving like a shadow through the rain-soaked forest.

As soon as Talon left, the squad resumed their trek, following the route he had marked. The rain pounded down harder now, turning the path into a slick, muddy trail. Lucas slipped a few times, muttering curses under his breath, while Jess and Miko trudged ahead, sharing the burden of their shared poncho.

Ava kept an eye on the group, her senses on high alert. She couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched, that the theft of their gear had been more than just a prank by cadets. Something wasn’t right.

“Where do you think Talon is now?” Lucas asked, his voice cutting through the steady rhythm of the rain.

Ava forced a smile, though her mind was elsewhere. “He’s probably right behind us, watching our backs.”

They pressed on, the climb growing steeper with each step. When they finally reached the next objective—a clearing overlooking a mist-filled valley—Miko let out a sigh of relief. “We made it.”

Ava scanned the area, her eyes sharp. “Let’s find the box and move fast. We don’t want to be caught out here if someone’s still following us.”

It was Miko who spotted the box, half-hidden beneath a pile of wet leaves. “Here!” he called, handing it to Lucas. “Alright, bookworm, let’s see what you’ve got.”

Lucas took the box, squinting at the rusted lock through the rain. “This one’s tricky, give me a minute…”

While Lucas worked on the puzzle, Jess stood at the edge of the clearing, staring out into the mist. “It’s quite a view,” she said, her voice soft, almost lost in the rain.

Miko joined her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “Yeah, it really is,” he agreed, pulling her closer for warmth.

Ava, standing nearby, was less concerned with the view. Something down the bank had caught her attention. She squinted through the rain, trying to make out the movement below. “Miko, Jess,” she called, her voice tense. “Do you see that? Someone’s moving down there.”

Before they could answer, the trees behind them rustled, and three cadets burst from the undergrowth, their hoods pulled low over their faces.

Ava’s heart leapt into her throat. “Cadets!” she shouted. “RUN!”

Without hesitation, Phoenix Squad grabbed their gear and bolted, abandoning the box as they sprinted uphill. The sound of their boots pounding against the muddy ground mixed with the rain, the cold air burning in their lungs as they ran.

Miko, running beside Ava, gasped out, “It’s like they don’t want to catch us… just keep us moving!”

Jess, just behind them, nodded, breathless. “Yeah… but moving toward what?”

Ava’s instincts screamed that they were being driven, but there was no time to question it. “Just keep going!” she yelled, pushing them forward.

They ran until their legs burned, until the cold rain felt like needles against their skin. Finally, they reached the highest point on Talon’s map, a rocky outcrop overlooking the valley below. They slowed to a jog, drenched and exhausted, their breath coming in ragged gasps.

“I think… we lost them,” Lucas wheezed, clutching his side.

Miko dropped his pack and leaned against a rock, his chest heaving. “We need to set up camp. I don’t think I can run another step.”

Jess, shivering, began gathering materials for a fire, but Ava stopped her with a sharp shake of her head. “No fire. They’ll see the smoke from miles away.”

The squad huddled together under the meager protection of the rock, the rain still pouring down around them. As they caught their breath, a voice cut through the dimming light, startling them all.

“Good call.”

Ava spun around, her hand flying to the knife at her side. But she relaxed when she saw Talon, half-hidden in the shadows, stepping out from behind a bush. His makeshift ghillie suit blended so well with the surroundings that he had been nearly invisible.

“Jesus, Talon,” Ava gasped, still catching her breath. “How long have you been there?”

Talon offered a small smile, though it quickly faded as he crouched beside the group. “Not long. But I’ve had a good look at the cadets following us.”

Ava’s stomach twisted with unease. “Cadets?” she asked, already sensing where this was headed.

Talon nodded, his expression dark. “It’s Brison’s squad.”

The name hit Ava like a punch to the gut. She glanced at the others and saw the same realization dawning on their faces. Brison wasn’t just any cadet. He was relentless, and he had a personal vendetta against them. This wasn’t just a training exercise anymore—it had become something much more dangerous.

Chapter 75:

For a moment, the rain and the cold were forgotten as the squad gathered closer, huddling around Talon. Ava’s mind raced, trying to process the implications of what Talon had just said.

“What do we do?” Jess asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ava’s jaw tightened as she looked out over the valley, her determination hardening. “We stay put for now. No fire, no noise. We need to stay hidden, at least until we know what Brison’s next move is.”

Phoenix Squad nodded in agreement, their usual camaraderie replaced by a tense, shared understanding. The stakes had never been higher. Now, it wasn’t just about completing the exercise—it was about surviving the next few days with Brison and his squad on their trail.

Phoenix Squad huddled together under the sparse shelter of a rocky overhang, their breath visible in the cold, damp air. The rain had not let up, falling steadily around them, drenching everything in its path. Talon, perched at the edge of the group, glanced around warily, keeping his voice low as he spoke.

“They’ve got weapons,” Talon said, his tone grim. “I saw a couple of bats, clubs… who knows what else they might have hidden. And they’re packing gear like ours, probably looted from the other squads.”

Ava’s expression darkened, her jaw tight with tension. “He’s here for me, isn’t he?” she asked quietly, almost to herself. “What if I just go and—”

“No.” Talon cut her off sharply, his gaze hard and unyielding. “I don’t think Brison’s here for a rematch, Ava. I think he’s looking to do more than just settle a score. He wants to hurt you.”

The group fell into a heavy silence, the weight of Talon’s words pressing down on them like the rain. Lucas, his voice unsteady, voiced what they were all thinking. “What’s stopping them from coming up here and taking us now?”

Talon gave a small, humorless smile. “The rain, for one. It slows them down just as much as it does us.” He glanced over his shoulder, his expression softening just a bit. “And I might’ve left a few surprises for them on the way up. They won’t be coming too close without some of my traps slowing them down.”

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Miko couldn’t help but laugh, the sound a brief respite from the tension. “That’ll teach them for messing with your traps,” he said, slapping Talon on the back as the two exchanged a quick high-five.

But Ava quickly brought the focus back to the situation at hand, her tactical instincts kicking in. “Alright, what’s the plan? How do we stay safe? We can’t sit here waiting for them to close in.”

Jess, always trying to lighten the mood, cracked a smile despite the circumstances. “I guess we’ll all be getting a lot closer tonight since we can’t make a fire.”

Ava nodded. “Yes, but we can’t stay here long. The rain’s giving us some cover, but we need to use the darkness to get to a help point. If we can move under the radar, we might make it before they catch on.”

Talon agreed, his voice steady. “Right. We move at night. I can scout ahead, but we’ll need to be fast and quiet.”

Before anyone could say more, a voice echoed through the rain-soaked woods, loud and mocking, sending a shiver down their spines. “AVA, I’M COMING FOR YOU!”

Brison’s voice, though filled with humor, carried a menacing edge that cut through the storm. The squad froze, the hairs on the back of their necks standing on end. A moment later, Brison’s voice boomed again, darker, angrier. “YOUR FRIENDS CAN GO FREE. I JUST WANT YOU, AVA! HAND HER OVER, AND THIS ENDS NOW!”

For a split second, no one spoke. The threat hung in the air like the heavy mist, suffocating. Talon was the first to break the silence, his voice low and fierce. “There’s no way you’re going anywhere alone, Ava. Don’t even think about it.”

Ava’s lips pressed into a thin line, her eyes dark with resolve. “I wasn’t planning to,” she whispered back, though the internal battle was evident in her face.

Lucas, ever perceptive even in moments like this, looked at her with suspicion. “Oh, please. Even I know what you’re thinking, Ava.”

She sighed, knowing they could all see through her. “I’m not going anywhere,” she said firmly, but her eyes flicked toward the path out, betraying her thoughts. “Look, we’ve got a route. We just need a few hours to make it work.”

The squad settled in tighter under the overhang, huddling together for warmth as the rain drummed steadily around them. The cold was biting, but the thought of Brison out there, waiting for them, made it impossible to relax.

Talon and Lucas took the first watch, keeping their eyes on the woods, listening for any signs of movement. After a while, Lucas, his voice barely a whisper, broke the quiet. “I’m sorry, Talon… for falling asleep back then. I know it was my fault.”

Talon nudged him lightly, his earlier frustration long gone. “Don’t worry about it, man. I think you’ve learned your lesson. And I’m sorry for shouting at you. We’re good.”

Lucas gave him a grateful smile, the tension between them easing in that small moment. They sat in companionable silence after that, watching the rain and keeping alert for any signs of Brison’s squad.

Hours passed, and eventually, Ava took the last watch. She sat alone, her mind churning with thoughts of what Brison had said, what he wanted. The rain had eased slightly, but the woods were still dark, the mist clinging to the trees like a veil. Ava’s heart pounded in her chest as she weighed her options, knowing what she had to do to keep her team safe.

She waited until she was sure everyone was asleep, then began to slowly stand, moving quietly so as not to wake anyone. Just as she was about to slip away into the night, a voice stopped her in her tracks.

“Ava, no!” Jess’s voice was quiet but firm, her eyes wide as she sat up, catching Ava mid-move.

Ava froze, guilt written all over her face. “Jess, I have to—”

“No, you don’t,” Jess said, getting to her feet, her expression serious. “We’re not doing this without you.”

Lucas, half-awake and groggy, grabbed her arm before she could take another step. “You’re not sneaking off, Ava. No way. We’re in this together, remember?”

Ava looked between them, her heart torn. She wanted to protect them, to keep them from the danger that Brison represented, but she couldn’t leave them either. They were her squad. Her family.

“We’ll find another way,” Jess whispered, her hand still gripping Ava’s tightly. “We’ll make it through this.”

Chapter 76:

Ava’s heart pounded as she stared into the faces of her squad, her mind racing with the weight of the decision that hung in the air. The rain still drummed steadily around them, the cold cutting through her soaked clothes, but none of that mattered. What mattered was keeping her team safe.

“Just let me go,” she urged, her voice low but fierce. “You guys head for the help point. I’ll distract them, keep them busy until—”

“No.” Talon’s voice cut through the air like a whip, firm and unyielding. He stepped forward, his eyes locked on Ava’s, his expression hard. “Six to one odds, Ava. I don’t think so. And running through this wasteland, in the dark, will only make it harder to find you. If not impossible.”

Ava’s shoulders slumped, her resolve wavering under Talon’s unwavering gaze. He was right, of course. Splitting up would only make things worse. She looked around at the rest of Phoenix Squad, their faces etched with concern, but also determination. They weren’t going to let her go off alone.

“Okay, okay,” Ava finally conceded, taking a deep breath as she tried to rally herself. “We move out soon. Together.”

The squad nodded, silent but united. They huddled closer, working quickly to lighten their packs and prepare for the difficult trek ahead. The rain had lessened to a fine drizzle, but the cold clung to them, seeping into their bones.

Brison's Camp:

The flickering light of a small fire cast long, jagged shadows against the trees as Brison huddled with his cadets under a makeshift shelter. The storm had hit them hard, too, but it had done nothing to dampen Brison’s dark excitement. His eyes gleamed in the firelight as he glanced around at his team, his voice low and dangerous.

“Do we have an idea where they are yet?” Brison asked, barely able to contain the anticipation that dripped from every word.

One of the cadets, eager to please, leaned forward. “Not yet, but they’re close. There are only a few routes out of this area. It’s only a matter of time before we catch sight of them. When we do, they’re ours.”

Brison’s lips twisted into a sinister grin as he leaned back, satisfied. “Good, good. And the traps? We have them set at the crossing?”

Another cadet, sitting beside the fire with a sharpened stick in hand, flashed a wicked smile. “Oh yes. They won’t get far once they hit that line.”

Brison chuckled darkly, his gaze fixed on the flames. “Perfect.”

Back at their own camp, Phoenix Squad moved quickly, each of them working to lighten their packs, checking their gear with precision. They were silent, their minds focused on the task ahead. Ava stood in the center of the group, her expression serious as she looked around at her squad.

“Phoenix,” she called out, her voice carrying through the rain. “We stick together. No matter what. If anyone falls behind, we all fall behind. Got it?”

“Clear,” the squad responded in unison, their voices barely audible over the steady rain. The determination in their eyes was unmistakable. They would not leave anyone behind.

As they set off into the night, the darkness swallowed them whole, the only sound the soft crunch of their boots on the wet ground and the rhythmic patter of rain on leaves. The tension in the air was thick, but there was no room for fear. Not now.

Lucas, his breath coming in quick, shallow bursts, could feel his heart racing in his chest. Despite his best efforts to keep it together, the weight of the situation was pressing down on him like a lead blanket. Talon, walking just behind him, noticed the tension and gave him a light nudge.

“Hey,” Talon whispered, his tone light, “they can’t see us in this. The rain’s on our side. We’ve got the advantage.”

Lucas glanced over, managing a weak smile. “That doesn’t help, but thanks,” he muttered, though he appreciated Talon’s attempt to ease the tension.

Talon chuckled softly, using their private joke to lighten the mood. “It’s okay, bookworm. You’re doing fine.”

Despite the cold knot of fear twisting in his gut, Lucas felt a little better. Talon’s calm confidence had that effect. He took a deep breath, focusing on the path ahead.

They moved carefully through the treacherous terrain, their pace steady but cautious. The rain had turned the ground into slick mud, making every step a challenge. Still, they pressed on, their eyes and ears alert for any sign of Brison’s cadets.

Then, suddenly, distant shouts pierced the quiet of the night. Voices calling out, coordinating. The unmistakable sound of a hunt.

Ava’s blood ran cold as she heard Brison’s voice rise above the rest, his tone laced with malice. “Find them! They’re close—I can smell that blonde bitch!”

Her heart hammered in her chest, but she kept moving, her hand tightening around the strap of her pack. They couldn’t stop. Not now.

As the squad picked up the pace, their breaths came in short, sharp bursts, their movements hurried but precise. They knew they couldn’t outrun Brison’s group forever. They had to outsmart them.

The rain fell harder now, turning the trail ahead into a slippery mess. Ava glanced back at her squad, their faces grim but determined. The fear was palpable, but so was the resolve. They weren’t just running to survive—they were running to protect each other.

Chapter 77:

The relentless downpour mirrored the somber mood of Phoenix Squad as they trudged through the thick, muddy terrain. Every step was a struggle, their boots sinking into the sodden ground, their gear heavy with rainwater. Ava glanced over at Talon, his form barely visible under the makeshift ghillie suit that clung to him like a second skin.

“Talon, do you have any idea where we are?” she asked, her voice barely carrying over the rain’s constant drumming.

Talon’s eyes scanned the landscape, unwavering. “Of course,” he replied confidently. He pointed ahead, the motion swift and deliberate. “The problem is the river crossing up ahead. There’s only one bridge marked on the map, and it’s our fastest option.”

Miko, his eyes narrowing as he looked into the dense foliage surrounding them, chimed in. “Is it worth trying to find another way across, further upriver?”

Talon shook his head, droplets of water flicking from his hood. “It could be possible, but that would take more time than we have. Brison’s too close.”

Ava, her thoughts racing, nodded in agreement. “We can’t risk it. Talon, I need you to double back and scout their position. We need to know exactly how close they are.”

Without a word, Talon gave a quick nod, his figure disappearing into the underbrush as silently as a shadow.

The rest of the squad pressed on, their steps quick and cautious as they moved toward the river crossing. The rain pounded down harder, soaking through their clothes and making every movement feel labored. They huddled near the bridge, the tension between them palpable as they scanned the area for any signs of an ambush.

Minutes passed, each one dragging into an agonizing eternity, until Talon reappeared through the mist, his breath coming in sharp, ragged bursts. “They’re close,” he gasped. “We need to cross now.”

No sooner had he spoken than a cry of pain tore through the air. Miko fell to the ground, clutching his leg. The squad rushed over, finding him caught in a vicious trap—a makeshift one made of sharpened sticks lashed together, designed to impale and hold any unlucky target that stumbled into it. Blood was already pooling around the jagged sticks that had pierced his leg.

Jess’s face turned white as panic seized her. “Get it out! Get it out of him!” she cried, her voice rising in desperation.

Talon and Lucas immediately dropped to their knees, their hands working frantically to free Miko from the crude trap. The sharpened sticks were driven deep into the earth, and it took all of Talon’s strength to pry them loose. As they worked, shouts echoed in the distance—Brison’s cadets were closing in, too close for comfort.

“Come on!” Ava urged, her voice tight with fear. “We don’t have time!”

With one final effort, Talon managed to free Miko’s leg, blood oozing from the deep puncture wounds. They hastily fashioned a makeshift stretcher out of branches and gear, lifting Miko onto it. Jess, her hands trembling, helped as best she could, tears mixing with the rain that streaked down her face.

“We’ve got you, Miko,” Jess whispered, her voice shaking. “We won’t leave you behind.”

As they moved across the bridge, Ava lagged behind, her mind racing. She knew they needed more time. The crossing was narrow, and if Brison’s cadets got there before they were across, they’d be cornered. Without hesitating, Ava began pulling at the bridge’s ropes and slats, working quickly to sabotage it as much as she could to slow their pursuers.

But just as they reached the other side, Jess’s scream cut through the rain, sharp and full of terror. Ava whirled around, only to feel a sudden, searing pain explode across her back. A cold blade pressed against her skin, and she gasped, her breath catching in her throat.

Brison’s voice was a low, menacing growl in her ear. “I knew I could smell you, blonde bitch.”

His breath was foul, hot against her neck as he twisted the blade just enough to make her wince. Jess, who had fallen behind, was now being manhandled by two of Brison’s cadets, one of them taunting her cruelly.

“We’ve been looking forward to this,” the cadet sneered, his lips curling in a grotesque grin as he licked Jess’s cheek, disgustingly close. “Ever since I took your coat…”

Jess struggled against them, her panic rising as they dragged her back, her feet slipping in the mud. “Run!” she screamed, her voice hoarse with desperation. “Run!”

Talon, Lucas, and the injured Miko had no choice but to keep moving, their hearts pounding in their chests. They crossed the bridge, their breaths coming in short, panicked gasps as they pushed forward through the rain. But as they reached the other side, they turned back, horror gripping them as they saw Ava in Brison’s cruel grip, Jess being dragged away, her voice fading into the night.

The rain continued to fall, heavy and unrelenting, as Phoenix Squad found themselves torn apart by chaos and capture. Their unity, once unshakable, now hung precariously in the balance as the night closed in around them.

Chapter 78: Final Showdown.

Ava’s vision blurred as she struggled against the hands that dragged her through the mud, her body aching from the relentless punishment. The sharp pain in her back pulsed with every jolt, reminding her of the knife wound Brison had just inflicted on her. Jess stumbled beside her, her own captors holding her tight, their mocking laughter cutting through the rain-soaked night.

The cold, wet ground clung to Ava’s clothes as she was hauled toward a clearing, her boots leaving deep furrows in the mud. She grit her teeth, biting back the pain that radiated from her back, her muscles trembling from exhaustion. Every breath felt like fire in her lungs, her wound slowing her down more than she wanted to admit.

“Move it, bitch,” one of Brison’s cadets sneered, yanking hard on her arm. “Don’t make this harder than it needs to be.”

Ava spat out a mouthful of rainwater and mud, her eyes flicking toward Jess. She could see the terror in her friend’s eyes, the hopelessness that clung to her like the rain. Ava’s heart pounded in her chest, the need to protect Jess pushing through the haze of pain.

“Leave her out of this,” Ava growled, her voice low and dangerous despite the pain. “This is between me and Brison.”

Her captor laughed, a cruel, hollow sound. “We’ll see about that.”

They were thrown down into the mud, face-first. Ava hit the ground with a heavy thud, gasping as the impact sent a fresh wave of agony shooting through her wounded back. Jess let out a cry as she landed beside her, trying to push herself up, but the cadets quickly pinned her down, keeping her in place.

Ava struggled to get to her feet, but her body betrayed her, weakened by the blood loss and the relentless beatings she’d endured. Her vision swam, the world tilting around her as she fought to stay conscious. But she couldn’t afford to give in. Not now. Not when Jess needed her.

A shadow loomed over her, and Ava’s heart sank as Brison stepped into the clearing, his dark eyes gleaming with cruel satisfaction. He was flanked by a couple of cadets, all of them grinning as if they were about to witness something entertaining. Brison’s knife gleamed in his hand, still slick with Ava’s blood from their earlier encounter.

“Well, well,” Brison drawled, his voice a mockery of concern. “Looks like you’re not doing too hot, Ava. That wound slowing you down?”

Ava’s breath came in ragged gasps, her fists clenching in the mud as she tried to push herself up. She could feel the blood seeping from the wound in her back, warm and sticky against her skin, but she refused to let it break her. Not now.

“Why don’t you come down here and find out?” she spat, her voice shaky but defiant.

Brison laughed, a cold, heartless sound. “You’ve got some fight left in you. I like that.”

With a sudden, brutal motion, Brison’s boot slammed into Ava’s side, knocking her flat onto her back. She gasped, her vision going white with pain as the world seemed to blur around her. Her body screamed in protest, the knife wound in her back flaring up with each desperate breath she took.

“Stay down, Ava,” Brison taunted, leaning over her, his face twisted with malice. “This won’t take long.”

But Ava wasn’t about to give in. She couldn’t.

With a surge of adrenaline, Ava forced herself to roll away from Brison’s next stomp. Her body screamed in pain, but she pushed through it, scrambling to her feet as best she could. Her legs trembled beneath her, weakened by the blood loss, but she kept her balance.

Brison’s smile faltered, and his eyes narrowed as Ava stood her ground, blood trickling down her back. “You just don’t know when to quit, do you?”

Ava didn’t respond. She couldn’t afford to waste breath on words. Every ounce of her focus was on Brison, on the fight ahead. Her fists clenched, her body coiled, ready to strike.

Brison lunged at her, swinging his knife in a wide arc. Ava ducked, moving on instinct, the blade whistling past her ear. She lashed out with a punch, catching Brison square in the jaw. His head snapped back, his eyes widening in surprise as he staggered back a step.

Ava pressed the advantage, ignoring the pain that shot through her with every movement. She landed another punch to Brison’s ribs, the satisfying thud of impact fueling her resolve. But Brison recovered quickly, his fist flying up to catch her across the face. The force of the blow sent her reeling, her body crashing back into the mud.

Brison was on her in an instant, his knee pressing into her chest, pinning her down. The rain mixed with the blood that dripped from her wound, turning the ground beneath them into a slick, filthy mess. Ava gasped for breath, struggling against Brison’s weight as he pressed the cold blade of his knife against her throat.

“This ends now, Ava,” Brison growled, his breath hot against her face. “I’ve waited too long for this.”

Ava’s vision swam, her body trembling from the strain. But she couldn’t give up. Not now. Not with Jess watching, helpless. Not with her squad counting on her.

With a desperate burst of strength, Ava bucked her body, knocking Brison off balance. The knife slipped from his grip as Ava twisted her body, freeing herself from beneath him. She scrambled to her feet, her hand clutching at the wound in her back, blood dripping between her fingers.

Brison recovered quickly, his face contorted with rage. He lunged at her again, fists swinging wildly. Ava barely managed to dodge the first punch, but the second caught her across the ribs, knocking the air from her lungs. She staggered back, gasping for breath, but Brison didn’t let up. His fists flew, each blow landing harder than the last, driving Ava back into the mud.

But Ava refused to stay down.

With a feral scream, she lunged at Brison, her fists slamming into his ribs, his face, anywhere she could reach. Her knuckles cracked against his cheekbone, drawing blood, but she didn’t stop. She couldn’t stop. Not until he was down.

Brison swung wildly, but Ava was relentless. She tackled him to the ground, her hands locking around his throat as they tumbled into the mud. Brison gasped, his hands clawing at her arms, but Ava held on, her grip tightening with each passing second.

His flailing grew weaker, his eyes wide with panic as the rain pounded down around them. His breath came in ragged gasps, his body trembling beneath her as she pressed him further into the mud. Ava’s vision blurred, her body screaming for relief, but she held on.

Finally, Brison’s movements stilled, his eyes rolling back as his body went limp beneath her.

Ava released her grip, collapsing beside him in the mud, her breath coming in shallow, desperate gasps. The world tilted around her, the pain in her back flaring up once again, threatening to drag her into unconsciousness.

As Ava lay on the ground, her breath shallow and her body trembling, she could hear the faint murmurs of Brison’s cadets. Their mocking grins had vanished, replaced with wide-eyed panic as they looked down at their leader lying motionless in the mud. The fear in their eyes was palpable, and one by one, their grips on Jess loosened as uncertainty took hold.

Jess, sensing the moment, tore herself free from their hold, her body surging with adrenaline. Without a second thought, she sprinted into the forest, her voice hoarse as she screamed for help. "Help! Somebody, please help us!"

Ava could only watch in a daze, her vision blurring at the edges. The rain still fell, cold and unforgiving, but she barely felt it now. Everything around her seemed distant, like she was watching it all from far away. The pain that had been burning so brightly through her body was dulling, replaced by an overwhelming heaviness. Her eyelids fluttered as the world around her grew darker.

In the distance, Jess’s voice cut through the haze, calling for help. The Sentinels were coming. Ava could hear them now, their voices growing louder as they approached. But her vision was fading, the world around her slipping into darkness.

It felt like hours, though it was likely only minutes, before she heard the sound of boots pounding through the mud. Jess’s frantic voice broke through the haze, panicked and breathless. "Over here! She’s here! Please, hurry!"

The last thing Ava heard before she succumbed to the darkness was Jess’s desperate voice, her hand clutching Ava’s as the Sentinels reached them.

A Sentinel dropped to his knees beside Ava, his hands moving swiftly to check her vitals. Jess crouched beside him, her face streaked with rain and tears. "Is she okay? Is she breathing?!" Jess’s voice cracked, her panic mounting as she clutched Ava’s hand, desperate for any sign of life.

The Sentinel pressed his fingers to Ava’s neck, searching for a pulse. His brow furrowed, his expression tight with concern. "She’s got a pulse, but it’s weak," he said quickly, his voice urgent. "We need a medic, now!"

Ava’s world dimmed further, the sound of Jess’s cries and the Sentinel’s voice growing faint. The darkness crept in from all sides, pulling her under, and despite the chaos around her, there was a strange sense of peace. She could feel herself slipping away, her body growing colder with every passing second.

As she drifted into unconsciousness, the last thing Ava felt was Jess’s trembling hand gripping hers tightly, her voice a desperate plea that echoed into the void. "Please… hold on, Ava. Don’t leave us."

Chapter 79: "So What Happened?"

A few days had passed since the brutal events in the wasteland, but the weight of the ordeal still hung heavily over Phoenix Squad. They had returned to their barracks, physically battered but more scarred by the mental and emotional toll. Each member of the squad seemed to be lost in their own thoughts, processing the trauma in silence.

The room was eerily quiet. Miko sat on the edge of his bunk, his legs wrapped in thick bandages from the trap that had nearly crippled him. Jess, still shaken by the close call with Brison’s cadets, sat beside him, leaning into his shoulder for comfort. Across the room, Ren, his arm still in a sling, shifted uncomfortably, his concern etched clearly on his face.

The sound of the rain outside the window filled the silence, broken only by Ren’s tentative voice. “What really happened out there?”

Talon, who had been sitting by the window, his knife in hand, turned his gaze toward the rain-soaked barracks door. He threw the blade into the wooden board across the room, the familiar *thunk* echoing sharply. His face was tight with frustration, his thoughts distant.

“Don’t beat yourself up, Ren,” Talon muttered, his tone gruff but tinged with exhaustion. He retrieved the knife and threw it again, harder this time. “Having another person out there might not have changed anything.”

The squad’s attention drifted toward Ava’s empty bunk. Her belongings remained as they were, untouched, like a memorial. Her book from Council Member Alaric lay on the pillow, a stark reminder of her absence. Every glance at that bunk twisted a knife deeper into their collective grief.

Talon’s knife-throwing became more aggressive, each throw hitting the target with increasing force, as though the act itself could silence the anger roiling inside him.

Lucas, who had been unusually quiet since their return, finally spoke, his voice strained with the tension that filled the room. “Talon, do you really have to keep doing that?”

Talon whipped around, his eyes blazing with barely contained fury. He hurled the knife with all his might, the blade splitting the board in two with a crack that echoed off the walls. “I wish I was there! I could’ve… I *could’ve done something*!”

His outburst left the room in stunned silence. Talon stood there, his chest heaving, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. The rest of the squad could only watch as the weight of everything they’d been through crushed him, his guilt and helplessness laid bare.

At that moment, the barracks door creaked open, and a couple of trainees poked their heads inside, their faces hesitant and full of quiet curiosity. Their eyes fell on Ava’s empty bunk, and one of them, barely more than a whisper, asked, “Where’s Ava’s bunk?”

Talon, still raw with emotion, whipped around, his voice sharp and defensive. “Why? You here to claim it?”

The trainees recoiled at the bite in his tone, but before the situation could escalate, Miko gently intervened, his voice calm but firm. “Talon, relax. Let them be.”

Talon’s jaw clenched, but he swallowed his anger and turned back toward the window, his back to the others. He didn’t say another word as the trainees, visibly shaken, approached Ava’s bunk. They placed small tokens of respect—a folded note, a flower—onto her pillow, their gestures quiet and reverent.

Before leaving, one of the trainees turned to Ren, who was watching with a haunted expression. “What happened out there?” he asked softly, his voice full of sympathy.

Ren sighed deeply, the exhaustion in his voice apparent. “I wasn’t there… but I don’t think they’re ready to talk about it just yet.”

The trainee nodded in understanding and slipped out, leaving the squad to their grief and the oppressive quiet that followed.

Outside, Talon stood in the rain, staring up at the darkened sky. His thoughts were a storm of guilt, anger, and frustration. The rain mixed with the tears he had tried to hold back for days, his emotions finally breaking free in the solitude.

He didn’t notice Council Member Alaric approaching until the older man was right beside him.

“Phoenix Squad,” Alaric said quietly, his voice cutting through the rain.

Talon glanced at him, wiping his face roughly with the back of his hand. “Yeah.”

Alaric studied him for a long moment before speaking again. “You’re Ava’s friend.”

Talon swallowed hard, the knot of emotion in his chest tightening. “Yeah.”

Alaric’s expression softened with a mixture of sadness and respect. “Brave kid, that one,” he murmured. “From the first day I saw her, I knew she was something special. She had that look in her eye—the kind you don’t forget.”

Talon managed a weak smile, the memory of Ava standing tall and defiant flashing in his mind. “She stood up for me, just so I could keep my bunk,” he said softly, his voice breaking with the weight of loss.

Alaric placed a firm hand on Talon’s shoulder, grounding him in the present. “You know,” Alaric said, his tone gentle but full of authority, “sometimes we’re exactly where we need to be. You saved your team mate. That’s just as heroic.”

Talon shook his head, the tears spilling freely now. “I know, but… it’s not enough. I should’ve been there.”

Alaric squeezed Talon’s shoulder, his voice firm. “No ‘buts,’ Talon. You did what you could, and from what I hear, you’re going to make an exceptional scout.”

Talon nodded weakly, his throat tight with unspoken grief. A single tear rolled down his cheek, disappearing into the rain.

Alaric, seeing the deep pain in Talon’s eyes, gave him a reassuring pat on the back. "Come," Alaric said softly, his voice full of understanding, "let’s go see your friend."

Without another word, Alaric turned and led Talon through the pouring rain. Together, they walked in silence, the cold droplets running down their faces as they headed toward a destination that held hope, even amid all the uncertainty.

Chapter 80:

Alaric and Talon’s footsteps echoed through the quiet corridor of the medical wing, their soft steps amplifying the gravity of the moment. The normally bustling base seemed worlds away, and all Talon could focus on was the rhythmic tapping of his boots and the tightening knot in his chest.

As they neared the door to Ava’s room, Alaric spoke quietly, breaking the silence with a decision that bent the usual protocols. His voice was low but resolute, filled with compassion.

"I’m bending a few rules here, Talon," Alaric said, his hand resting on the door handle, "but I believe it’ll do her good to have a friend by her side."

With that, Alaric pushed open the door, allowing Talon to step into the room. The sterile scent of antiseptic hit him first, followed by the soft hum of machines that surrounded Ava’s bed. The rhythmic beeping of the monitors was the only sound breaking the otherwise quiet space. Ava lay still, her face pale against the white hospital sheets, a stark contrast to the fierce warrior she had been in the wasteland just days ago.

Talon stopped at the threshold, his breath catching in his throat. He wasn’t used to seeing her like this—so still, so vulnerable. The sight of her hooked up to the machines, her usually determined eyes closed, hit him harder than he expected.

Alaric gently nudged him forward. "Go on," he encouraged softly. "Talk to her, Talon. She can hear you."

Talon swallowed hard, forcing himself to take the steps that brought him closer to Ava’s side. He reached down and took her hand, feeling its coolness against his palm. For a moment, he was at a loss for words, the sight of her fragile form stealing away the brave face he’d tried to put on. He squeezed her hand gently, hoping for even the faintest response.

"Hey, Ava," Talon began, his voice low and filled with the emotion he had been holding back. "It’s me, Talon. We’re back at the base now... we made it. You’re safe here."

He smiled, trying to push some warmth into his voice, even though his heart ached seeing her so still. The silence in the room felt suffocating, broken only by the steady beeping of her heart monitor. Talon gave her hand another squeeze, trying to remind himself that this wasn’t the end, that she was still fighting.

"I... I don’t know if you can hear me, but I just wanted to let you know that Phoenix Squad is with you. We’re all here, waiting for you to wake up." He chuckled weakly, his voice breaking just slightly. "Lucas is probably already planning something crazy for when you’re up and around again."

He paused, then let out a short laugh. "Actually, I gave Lucas some news you’ll appreciate. I told him he's on bush-craft duty for the next few weeks."

Talon smiled, imagining the look on Lucas’s face when he broke the news earlier that morning. He knew Ava would have loved to see it—Lucas’s mix of horror and disbelief at the idea of spending days on end in the wilderness.

"He wasn’t too happy about it, of course," Talon continued, shaking his head with a grin. "He begged me to switch him to anything else, even offered to trade for more PT, if you can believe that. But nope, I told him he’s got to learn it sometime. Figured you’d back me up on that one."

He squeezed Ava’s hand again, hoping for even the slightest flicker of response. "I know you would’ve loved to see his face when he realized he was stuck with me, learning how to survive off nothing but twigs and berries." Talon chuckled softly, though the laughter didn’t quite reach his eyes. "He’ll survive. We all will."

As his voice grew quieter, the weight of the situation pressed back down on him. The levity of the moment faded, replaced by the heavy silence of the room, the steady beeping of the machines the only sound.

Talon glanced at her face, searching for any sign of movement. "I need you to wake up, Ava. We all do. But no pressure," he added with a smile that trembled slightly. "Just… take your time. We’ll be here when you’re ready."

He continued to talk, recounting stories from their time in training and how the squad was coping. He told her about Miko’s recovery and how Jess hadn’t left his side since they got back. He talked about the visitors who left small tokens on her bunk, and how Ren had been asking everyone what happened, desperate to understand.

"You’ve got so many people pulling for you, Ava," Talon whispered. "But we need you back."

After what felt like hours, the door creaked open, and a nurse stepped inside. Her expression was kind but professional, a gentle reminder that time was up.

"It’s time to let her rest now," the nurse said softly, placing a hand on Talon’s shoulder. "She needs it to heal."

Talon nodded, his eyes lingering on Ava’s still form. He wiped at his face discreetly before standing up from the chair. He turned to the nurse, his voice barely a whisper.

"Can I come back tomorrow?" he asked, his voice thick with emotion.

"Yes, of course," the nurse reassured him with a soft smile. "But only one visitor at a time, and only her squad members."

Talon nodded gratefully, taking one last look at Ava before heading toward the door. His steps were slow, heavy with the weight of worry and the unknown. As he reached the threshold, he hesitated, glancing back at her once more.

"Hang in there, Ava," he whispered, his voice soft but filled with determination. "We’re all pulling for you."

With that, he left the room, his heart heavy but his hope still intact. The rain still poured outside, mirroring the storm of emotions brewing inside him. He walked slowly back toward the barracks, knowing he had to tell the others, knowing they were all waiting for news of their friend.

As he walked through the rain, the droplets mingled with the tears he hadn’t yet wiped away, each step carrying him further from the sterile confines of the hospital wing and back toward the warmth of his waiting squad. But his thoughts never left Ava, her still face burned into his mind, the hope of her recovery the only thing keeping him moving forward.

Chapter 81:

A few days had passed since Phoenix Squad received news that Ava’s condition was stable, but she still hadn’t woken up. The tension around their barracks was heavy as they prepared for their first visit to the medical wing. Each member of the squad moved with a mixture of nervous energy and relief—relief that their leader was alive, but fear of seeing her so vulnerable.

Gathered outside, they organized a schedule to ensure Ava wouldn’t be overwhelmed. Each person had something to bring—whether it was a gift, a story, or just their presence. They knew how much it would mean to her once she woke up.

Talon had already visited her first and brought back the reassuring news: her vitals were strong, and now, it was only a matter of time before she regained consciousness.

Lucas was the first to enter after Talon. He carried a stack of books—her favorite ones, of course. It felt right to bring something that reminded her of their quiet moments together, when they would talk about literature between intense training drills. Lucas pulled up a chair beside her bed, the sterile hum of the medical machines forming a soft background to his presence.

He settled the books on the side table and adjusted his chair, leaning close to Ava.

"Hey, Ava," he whispered, his voice shaky at first but growing more confident as he spoke. "I thought I’d bring you something to listen to. I know how much you like hearing my voice drone on about these stories."

He smiled, though it was bittersweet. Ava’s still form was hard to reconcile with the fierce leader he was used to seeing in the field. But he knew, deep down, that she would pull through.

"I’ll start reading. You just relax, okay?" Lucas began, his voice steady as he read aloud. Though her eyes remained closed, he imagined she was listening, absorbing every word, as she always did.

When it was Jess’s turn, she carried a framed sketch she had drawn of Phoenix Squad during one of their rare, peaceful moments together. The sketch captured them laughing, relaxed—one of the few times they had been able to lower their guard. She hung it up where Ava would be able to see it the moment she opened her eyes.

"Look at this, Ava," Jess said softly, sitting beside the bed. "I captured one of our better moments. You have to wake up and tell me if I got your good side."

Jess tried to keep her voice light, but the tremor of emotion was unmistakable. She reached over and took Ava’s hand in hers, her thumb brushing over Ava’s knuckles as she spoke.

"You’ve always been the strong one, pushing us to be our best. It’s weird not having you around, but we’re holding things together. Miko’s been keeping us laughing, and Lucas... well, he’s still Lucas." She smiled, her voice breaking with the weight of unspoken emotions. "But we need you back, Ava. We need you to wake up."

Miko entered quietly, his steps heavy with the weight of everything they had been through. He sat beside Ava, not saying anything at first, just holding her hand. Miko was never one to fill silence with unnecessary words. After a few moments, he spoke, his voice low and filled with warmth.

"You know, Ava, we’ve been sticking together... just like you taught us," he said softly. "It’s not the same without you, though. The squad needs you, I need you."

He paused, his thumb brushing over her hand as he recalled a specific moment in their training. "Remember when you told me I wasn’t thinking things through enough? That I was too focused on brute strength?" He chuckled lightly. "Well, I’ve been trying to fix that. I’ve been using my head more, just like you said."

A faint smile touched his lips. "But you better wake up soon, so I can tell you in person. I owe you a thanks."

Chapter 82: She’s Awake.

During Talon’s second visit, as he sat by Ava’s side, recounting a story about how he had assigned Lucas to bushcraft for the next few weeks, Ava’s eyelids began to flutter. It was subtle at first, just a twitch of her lashes, but then her eyes cracked open.

Talon, mid-sentence, froze. His heart leaped as he leaned closer. "Ava? Ava, are you awake?"

Her gaze was foggy, disoriented, but she managed to lock eyes with Talon. Her lips parted, and though her voice was a whisper, it carried the weight of a thousand emotions.

"Talon..." she rasped, her throat dry. "What... happened?"

Talon grinned, relief flooding his features. "You’re awake," he breathed, overwhelmed by the sight of her conscious. "You scared the hell out of us, Ava."

Ava blinked, still trying to piece things together. "Everyone... okay?" she asked, her voice weak but full of concern.

"Everyone’s fine," Talon assured her, squeezing her hand gently. "Thanks to you. You held us together out there, even when things got rough. We’ve been taking turns visiting. The squad’s been holding up... but we need you back."

Ava managed a small smile, though it took all her energy. "I didn’t mean... to cause so much... trouble."

Talon chuckled, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "Trouble? Ava, you saved our lives. You’ve earned yourself a break."

As news of Ava waking up spread through the medical wing, the rest of Phoenix Squad began to filter in. Each member brought their own gifts, stories, and quiet moments of support. Ava was still weak, but her heart swelled with gratitude as each of them shared their thoughts.

Ren, his arm still in a sling, entered the room with a bright smile. He was the last of the squad to see her that day, and he made sure to bring a bit of humor to lighten the mood.

"Look who’s back," he said, pulling up a chair. "We’ve missed you, Ava. It’s been chaos without you around."

Ava chuckled softly, her voice still hoarse. "You’ve been... causing trouble?"

Ren grinned. "More like trying to keep up with everything. I tried pulling one of your moves during a drill. Nearly fell on my face." He winked. "We need you back to show us how it’s done."

Ava laughed, her smile widening. "I’ll... be back soon."

That evening, as the squad left Ava to rest, Talon returned for a final check-in before heading back to the barracks. The room was quiet, dimly lit by the soft glow of the hallway light spilling in through the doorway.

Talon sat beside Ava, taking her hand gently. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice soft.

Ava looked at him, her eyes filled with gratitude and vulnerability. "It’s strange," she admitted quietly. "Seeing everyone worry about me. I’m supposed to be the strong one."

"You are strong, Ava," Talon replied, his tone filled with conviction. "The strongest person I know. But even the strongest need to rest sometimes. And it’s okay to let us worry. We’re your squad... we’ve got your back."

Ava’s eyes softened, and she nodded. "Thank you," she whispered. "For everything."

Talon gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "No need to thank me, Ava. Just get better. We need you."

Chapter 83: Nightmare's.

Ava awoke suddenly, her breath shallow and erratic, the weight of her nightmares pressing heavily on her chest. Her heart raced, pounding against her ribcage like a war drum, as fragments of her recent ordeal replayed in her mind. Brison’s snarling face, Jess’s screams—each haunting detail echoed in the recesses of her memory. She sat up abruptly, wincing at the sharp pain that flared from the stitches mapping her injuries across her back. As she adjusted to the dim light of the hospital room, Ava noticed a figure seated quietly in the shadowy corner.

"Who's there?" Ava's voice was hoarse, her body still tense from the nightmare's lingering grip.

From the corner, a familiar voice emerged, calm yet commanding. "Easy, Girly. It’s just me."

Councilman Drayton leaned forward, the faint glow from the hallway casting his features in relief. His face, weathered yet kind, bore a gentle smile. "Ethan asked me to check in on you. You know how he worries."

Ava blinked, still adjusting to the present moment, the fog of her nightmare slowly lifting. She pressed her hand to her back, feeling the roughness of the stitches beneath her fingertips.

"You’ve heard from Ethan?" she asked, her voice soft, barely above a whisper. "How is he?"

Drayton waved a hand dismissively, though not unkindly. "He’s fine, Ava. He’s more concerned about you. Let’s focus on your recovery for now."

The room fell into a brief silence. Drayton studied Ava’s face, his eyes narrowing slightly in thought. "You seem troubled," he observed. "Nightmares?"

Ava blinked at him, surprised. "How did you know?"

Drayton smiled knowingly, shifting in his chair. "It’s written all over your face. Plus, you talk in your sleep. What are they about?"

Ava hesitated, glancing down at her hands. The nightmare had felt so real—the disjointed voices, the screams, the panic. She didn’t know where to begin. But something about Drayton’s presence—the quiet authority he held—compelled her to speak.

"They’re... loud," Ava began slowly, her voice trembling slightly. "Jess... screaming. Brison’s face... I can’t get it out of my head. And then there’s the silence... right before it all goes dark."

Drayton nodded, his expression serious but not unsympathetic. "It’s normal, Ava. After everything you’ve been through, it’s only natural for your mind to cling to those moments. You faced death. It’s okay to be affected by it."

Ava looked at him, her brow furrowing. She hadn’t thought about it in those terms—not until now. She had been so focused on surviving, on protecting her squad, that she hadn’t allowed herself to process what had happened. The weight of it pressed down on her, and for the first time since waking up, the full gravity of her experience hit her.

"Have they told you everything?" Drayton asked, his voice soft but pointed.

Ava’s brow furrowed in confusion. "I know I stopped Brison," she said, her voice steadying. "That help arrived because of me."

Drayton’s gaze remained fixed on her, his voice calm but laced with something deeper—concern, perhaps. "Indeed," he said slowly, "but did they tell you how close you came to not making it yourself?"

Ava stared at him, her breath catching in her throat. "What do you mean?"

Drayton leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. "You were dying, Ava. The medics had to revive you—twice. You’re lucky to be alive."

The room seemed to still, the air thickening around them as Ava processed his words. Her hands tightened into fists, her knuckles white. She had known it had been bad—she had felt the pain, the exhaustion—but hearing the truth laid bare like that sent a shiver down her spine.

"I could have..." Ava’s voice trailed off, barely above a whisper. "I could have died."

Drayton nodded solemnly. "Yes. But you fought. And now, you’re here. But you need to heal, Ava. Not just your body, but your mind as well."

For a long moment, Ava remained silent, her gaze fixed on the floor as she tried to absorb the enormity of what had happened. She had always been the strong one, the protector—but this had nearly broken her. And yet, she was still standing. The realization settled over her like a weight, but it was one she knew she could bear.

Drayton stood, smoothing his coat. "If you ever need to talk, my office is always open," he said, his tone kind but firm.

Ava glanced up at him, nodding slightly. "Thank you," she murmured.

As Drayton left the room, a nurse entered, her smile warm and reassuring as she approached Ava’s bedside. "You’re healing well," the nurse said, checking Ava’s stitches. "You’ve made great progress, and if you’re feeling up to it, we can get you back to the barracks today."

Ava blinked, surprised. "Really? I can go back?"

The nurse smiled, nodding. "Yes, but no overexerting yourself. Bed rest is still important, and no sneaking off for extra training."

Ava chuckled softly, wincing slightly at the pull of her stitches. "No training, I promise."

The nurse helped her sit up, supporting her as she swung her legs over the side of the bed. Ava’s body still ached, her muscles stiff and uncooperative, but the thought of returning to the barracks—to her squad—filled her with a sense of relief.

"Take it slow," the nurse advised, steadying Ava as she stood.

Ava nodded, grateful for the support. "I will."

As she prepared to leave, Ava couldn’t help but reflect on Drayton’s words. The idea that she had been so close to death still lingered in her mind, but instead of fear, she felt a quiet determination settle in her chest.

She wasn’t done yet. There was still so much to do—so many people to protect. Her squad needed her, and she would do whatever it took to be ready for whatever came next.

Ava caught her reflection in the small mirror near the door, her pale face framed by the harsh hospital lighting. Her eyes, though tired, were filled with resolve.

"I need to get better," she whispered to herself. "For me... for them."

With the nurse’s help, Ava slowly made her way out of the medical wing. The nightmares still lingered in the back of her mind, but they no longer controlled her. She had faced death and survived. Now, it was time to move forward.

And she would face whatever came next, head on.

Chapter 84:

The barracks bustled with life as Ava entered, supported by Jess and Talon. The warmth and noise of Phoenix Squad filled the room, a stark contrast to the sterile, quiet hospital she had left behind. Her squadmates fussed over her immediately, rushing to fetch pillows, water, and anything else they thought she might need. It was clear that their concern was genuine, but Ava couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by their hovering attention.

She chuckled, her voice soft but amused. "Guys, I appreciate it, really. But I can still reach for a book on my own. I’m okay, I promise."

Lucas, always the practical one, sheepishly handed her the book he had fetched. "Sorry," he mumbled, "I just didn’t want you to strain yourself."

Jess, however, refused to leave Ava’s side, her presence a quiet but constant source of comfort. She settled on the bunk beside Ava, gently brushing her hair back from her face. It was an intimate, sisterly gesture, one that spoke to the closeness the two had developed through everything they had faced together.

"I’ve always admired your hair, you know?" Jess murmured, her fingers threading gently through the strands.

As Jess’s fingers moved through her hair, Ava’s mind flashed back, unbidden, to that night. Brison’s hand, rough and cruel, had grabbed her hair, yanking her back as she tried to fight. The scream—Jess’s scream—echoed in her ears, sharp and panicked. The memory hit her like a wave, sudden and overwhelming, and she flinched, her body stiffening.

Jess immediately noticed the change in Ava’s posture. Her hands stilled, her brow furrowing in concern. "Ava?" she asked gently. "What’s wrong? Are you okay?"

Ava forced a smile, though her heart still raced. "It’s nothing," she lied, her voice tight. "Just a random shiver. Keep going... it feels nice."

Jess hesitated for a moment longer, searching Ava’s face for any sign of deeper distress. But Ava’s smile, though forced, was enough to convince her. She resumed brushing, though her movements were more tentative now, her worry lingering.

The comfort Jess was offering soothed Ava, but it wasn’t enough to quiet the storm of memories swirling in her mind. The gaps in her recollection haunted her, and the flashes of memory—disjointed and fragmented—only served to heighten her anxiety. She needed to know what had happened, to fill in the blanks.

"Jess," Ava began, her voice hesitant but determined, "can I ask you something?"

Jess paused again, the brush stilling in her hand. "Of course," she replied, her tone gentle. "Anything."

Ava swallowed hard, her fingers twisting in the blanket beneath her. "I need to know more about what happened that night... with Brison. My memory... it’s all jumbled. I only remember bits and pieces."

Jess’s hand trembled slightly, the brush slipping from her grasp and landing softly on the bed. She stared at it for a moment, her expression conflicted. The memories of that night were ones she had tried hard to bury, but she understood why Ava needed to know.

"Why do you want to dig that up, Ava?" Jess asked, her voice tight with emotion. "It’s over now. You survived. That’s all that matters."

Ava shook her head, her voice firmer this time. "I need to understand, Jess. There are gaps in my memory... I can’t move forward until I know. Please."

Jess exhaled slowly, her fingers knotting together in her lap. She took a deep breath before beginning, her voice low and steady, though each word was weighted with the trauma of the events she was about to recount.

"They..." Jess’s voice faltered, but she pushed through. "They had started cutting off my coat. I was pinned down, helpless... I thought..." She trailed off, her throat tightening. "That’s when you... you fought Brison. You saved me, Ava."

Ava’s heart clenched as Jess spoke, her fragmented memories aligning with Jess’s story. The panic, the fear—it all started to make sense now.

"You were hurt, Ava," Jess continued, her voice trembling slightly. "But you got back up. You fought him with everything you had. That gave me the chance to escape."

Ava nodded slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. "And then?"

Jess’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, her voice breaking. "I ran. I didn’t know if I’d find help in time... or if I’d even find you again." She wiped at her eyes, the tears falling freely now. "When we came back, you were still there. Still fighting. Even though you were unconscious... you were still holding onto him. I thought we were going to lose you."

Ava reached out, her hand finding Jess’s. Their fingers intertwined, and for a moment, they sat in silence, the weight of their shared experience heavy between them. But there was comfort in that silence, too—a bond forged in the crucible of fear and pain, but strengthened by the love and loyalty they held for each other.

"You didn’t lose me, Jess," Ava whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "I’m still here. Thanks to you."

Jess managed a watery smile, squeezing Ava’s hand tightly. "And you’re not getting rid of me that easily either."

They both laughed softly, their laughter mingling with the remnants of tears. It was a bittersweet sound, one that spoke to the pain they had endured but also to the strength they had found in each other.

As the laughter faded, Ava leaned back against her pillows, her heart lighter than it had been in days. The memories were still there, still raw, but they no longer felt insurmountable. She wasn’t alone in carrying them—not with Jess by her side.

"Thank you," Ava murmured, her eyes drifting closed as exhaustion began to creep in. "For everything."

Jess smiled softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from Ava’s face. "Always," she whispered.

As Ava drifted off to sleep, Jess remained by her side, watching over her with the same fierce protectiveness that Ava had shown her so many times before. And for the first time since that night, Ava’s sleep was peaceful, free from the nightmares that had plagued her.

Chapter 85:

As the weeks passed, the barracks of Phoenix Squad were filled with a sense of anticipation and a quiet determination. Ava, though still recovering, was steadily regaining her strength. Each day was a step closer to normalcy, with her squadmates by her side. Every morning began with light exercises, carefully designed by the medical staff to ease her back into full health. In the afternoons, the squad gathered for discussions, strategizing about their future as cadets and reflecting on all they had endured.

Ava often sat on the sidelines, her thoughts drifting between the present and their shared past, watching as her friends trained. The once fierce commander now found herself in a contemplative space, her experiences in the wasteland still lingering but no longer haunting her. Her squadmates never let her feel left out, taking turns to sit with her, sharing jokes, training updates, and offering support in their own unique ways.

Jess had hardly left Ava’s side since that fateful night in the wasteland. Profoundly affected by what they had been through, Jess found solace in sketching—capturing quiet moments of their recovery, laughter shared during meals, and the camaraderie that had only grown stronger. Miko, fully healed and back to his energetic self, took on the role of keeping the squad organized, ensuring they stayed sharp for the final evaluations and the looming graduation.

Lucas, still haunted by his lapse during their time in the wild, threw himself into his studies. Every night, he could be found with his nose buried in tactical manuals, determined to never let his guard down again. His guilt had driven him to work harder, and it hadn’t gone unnoticed by his squad.

Talon, ever the outdoorsman, led weekend survival skills sessions for the squad. These excursions, though casual in nature, strengthened the already unbreakable bond between them. Each lesson felt like a piece of the puzzle falling into place, ensuring that Phoenix Squad was not only a cohesive unit but one that could thrive in any environment.

As the day of their graduation approached, the squad’s excitement grew. Their boots gleamed from a fresh polish, their uniforms were crisp, and they rehearsed the ceremony protocols with precision. The air buzzed with the realization that they had made it, that they had faced every challenge together, and emerged stronger than ever.

Graduation Day:

The auditorium was filled with the buzz of anticipation as Phoenix Squad and their fellow cadets gathered for the graduation ceremony. Distinguished guests sat in the front rows, including Councilman Drayton and Councilor Alaric, both of whom had played pivotal roles in their journey.

As the ceremony commenced, the names of the graduates were called, and one by one, the members of Phoenix Squad stepped forward to receive their cadet pins. Each pin symbolized not only their personal achievements but the collective strength and unity of their squad. The applause was thunderous, but when Ava’s name was called, the energy in the room reached a new peak.

"Cadet Ava, please step forward," Councilor Alaric announced, his voice filled with pride.

Ava rose, her steps measured and steady. Each movement carried the weight of her journey—the battles fought, both physical and emotional, and the resilience that had brought her here. As she reached the front, Alaric smiled warmly, pinning her cadet badge onto her uniform.

"Your courage and leadership have set a standard for all who come after you," Alaric said, his voice resonating with admiration.

Just as Ava began to step back, Councilman Drayton approached the podium with a special announcement.

"Today, we also present a medal for outstanding bravery to Cadet Ava," Drayton declared, holding up the gleaming award. "This medal is a testament to your strength, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to your squad. You embody the very essence of what it means to be a Sentinel."

As Drayton affixed the medal to her uniform, the auditorium erupted in cheers, led by Phoenix Squad, who couldn’t contain their pride. Ava’s eyes glistened, her heart swelling with a mixture of humility and gratitude. She looked out into the sea of faces—her friends, her squad, her family.

Drayton continued, his voice filled with authority and pride. "**Phoenix Squad has achieved the highest honors on the leaderboard and will continue together, proving their exceptional teamwork and unity in the challenges to come.**"

With the formalities over, the ceremony wrapped up in a flurry of applause and congratulations. The squad regrouped in their common room, where the excitement bubbled over into laughter and light-hearted conversation.

"Can you believe it?" Lucas exclaimed, still in disbelief. "We topped the chart!"

Jess, flipping through her sketchbook, smiled fondly. "These moments—this squad—it made us who we are."

Ava, absentmindedly touching her medal, her voice soft but resolute, added, "Every challenge we faced, we faced together."

Talon grinned, his usual light-hearted nature shining through. "Next year, the rookies better watch out. They've got some big shoes to fill."

Laughter filled the room, lightening the mood and bringing them all back to the present, where the weight of their accomplishments felt real and tangible.

Miko, ever the steady voice of reason, raised his hand with a thoughtful smile. "Let’s make a pact," he suggested, his tone both serious and heartfelt. "No matter where we go or what we do, we meet here once a year. To reminisce, to celebrate, and maybe shed a tear or two if we must.**"

The room fell silent for a moment as they all nodded in agreement, the depth of their bond silently affirmed in that shared look.

Ava, her heart full, echoed Miko’s sentiment. "Always together,**" she said, her voice filled with warmth and certainty.

As the night wore on, the boisterous energy of the celebration gradually gave way to a peaceful calm. Phoenix Squad sat together quietly, the strength of their unity palpable in the room. The future stretched out before them, filled with new challenges and adventures, but in that moment, all they cared about was the present—the family they had become.

Ava glanced around at her squad mates, each one of them lost in their own thoughts but connected by the shared experiences that had shaped them. A soft smile played on her lips as she leaned back, confident that whatever came next, they would face it together.