Chapter 8: Return and Ranks
The squad arrived back at the Interstellar Defense Force headquarters just as the glow of the setting sun bathed the sprawling facility in warm light. The towering complex, sleek and imposing, was a stark contrast to the ruined city they had left behind.
Inside the briefing room, the recruits gathered around a holo-display where their performance data was being projected.
A commanding officer's voice cut through the quiet. "Based on your performance during the mission, your ranks have been updated."
The names and numbers appeared:
1st: Izan Shadowmere
2nd: Zion Bixen
3rd: Xena Zede
4th: Rhys Erous
5th: Miya Royun
6th: Elara Zede
Elara's lips pressed into a thin line, eyes flickering with impatience. "You'll regret this," she muttered under her breath.
Xena glanced her way but said nothing.
Izan spoke up, voice steady and calm. "Rankings don't decide how this team functions. Our next steps matter more."
Zion grinned, nudging Rhys. "Guess we all passed the test. Time to prove it."
Rhys nodded, catching Miya's eyes briefly. No words, just an understanding.
The group dispersed, tension still present but tempered by a fragile respect.
Later, in the mess hall, Miya leaned toward Rhys quietly. "We're moving up. That changes things."
Rhys shrugged, a slight smile tugging at his lips. "Just means the real work starts."
Elara sat alone in a corner, arms crossed tightly, eyes watching the others with quiet intensity.
The mission was over, but the challenges ahead were just beginning.