Chapter 3: Tensions at the Command Post.

After the intense training session with the Arbor Defense Force, Ava made her way to the Sentinel post, her stride purposeful, determination radiating from her with every step. The air was heavy with tension, and Ava knew she needed to make her case to Commander Sterling if they had any hope of pushing back the Reclaimers effectively. Talon was essential to that plan.

Inside the command post, Commander Sterling was deeply focused on the sprawling map that covered the table before him, surrounded by screens flashing data and logistics updates. The atmosphere was charged with the seriousness of their current situation, but Ava wasn’t going to back down.

"Commander Sterling," Ava began, stepping forward and immediately cutting to the heart of the matter. "We need Talon on the ground. His expertise as a scout is unmatched, and we’re not fighting the Syndicate—so what’s the problem? Why are you keeping him benched?"

Sterling didn’t look up right away, his expression sour as if Ava’s presence was an irritation he didn’t have time for. "Sentinel Ava," he said, his voice low and edged with authority, "Talon's history with the Syndicate makes him a potential liability. I don’t trust him."

Ava's eyes narrowed, her voice hardening with disbelief. "A liability? Talon’s past is exactly what makes him an asset. He knows how these groups operate—Reclaimers, raiders, or anyone else who dares threaten Green Arbor. He’s proven his loyalty time and time again. I trust Talon more than I trust any of you sitting behind maps and tactics."

Sterling’s eyes flicked up, his patience visibly fraying. "Watch your tone, Ronin. Know your place. You have a job to do, and it’s not second-guessing my orders. Talon stays where I put him."

Ava crossed her arms, unrelenting. "My place is on the battlefield, protecting Green Arbor. Talon belongs out there too, not sitting behind, waiting for orders that don’t make sense. You’re making a mistake, Commander. He’s a better fighter than most of your soldiers."

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Sterling’s fist slammed down on the table, rattling the map and sending a clear message that his patience had run out. "Enough! Talon is off this operation because I say so. You may trust him, but I don’t. I don’t care if he’s the best scout or the best fighter. His past with the Syndicate puts us all at risk."

Ava leaned in closer, her voice a low growl, barely containing her anger. "Syndicate or not, you’re blind if you don’t see that Talon is our best chance out there. We’re not fighting shadows from his past; we’re facing real threats, and we need him."

Sterling’s face reddened with barely concealed frustration. "This isn’t your decision, Ronin! You’ve been given your orders. If you don’t like them, I can make sure you’re reassigned to something less... vital. You can play soldier with the Arbor Defense Force if you think tactics are too much for you."

Ava’s jaw clenched. "You know what? I’d rather fight with the ADF than sit here arguing about tactics with people who don’t even know what’s really happening out there."

"That’s enough!" Sterling snapped. "Get out of my sight, Sentinel, before I make this official. I’ve had more than enough of your insubordination."

Ava stared at him for a beat longer, her eyes blazing with defiance. She turned sharply on her heel and stormed out of the command post, her mind racing with anger and frustration.

Outside, she found herself heading instinctively toward Miko’s house. She needed familiar faces—people she could trust. The sounds of laughter and the smell of grilled food greeted her as she approached. It was a stark contrast to the charged atmosphere she had just left behind.

"Hey everyone," Ava called out, trying to shake off the tension as she stepped into the yard. Little Ava immediately rushed over, wrapping her arms around her legs.

"Auntie Ava!" she squealed, her face bright with excitement.

Jess smiled, walking over to join them. "Good to see you, Ava. We’ve all missed you."

Eli greeted her next, pulling her into a tight embrace. "You alright?" he asked quietly, sensing the tension in her frame.

Ava forced a smile and kissed him. "Better now," she replied, though the weight of her earlier confrontation with Sterling still lingered heavily.

As the evening progressed, the group’s laughter and warmth began to melt away Ava’s frustration, grounding her in the bonds of friendship and family. For now, she could push aside the fallout with Sterling. But soon, they’d have to face what was coming. And Ava wasn’t about to let anyone stand in her way when it came to protecting her home.