As we are moving through the lower quarters towards our extraction point, my nerves starts to get to me. The halls start to look the same, it feels like we are going in circles. But that isn't the worst. The shadows and the lights dance like a continuos dance of death. Like they're already mourning our passing. My breathing has become ragged, the tense atmosphere making it harder to breathe.
"Hey recruit, Why are there gates around cemeteries?" Seth asks me suddenly, in a dead serious voice, making me so confused I just stare at him.
"Because people are dying to get in." He says in a just as serious voice.
"That's lame." I snicker.
"Yeah, but it worked." He casually remarks.
And it did, I felt myself being more calm.
"Thanks..."
He gives me a nod as we are moving into a bigger room.
"Squad 4 and 3. This is command, there has been movement detected at your extraction point. There is no other way for you, if you were to go to another extraction point, the chances of you surviving is even smaller. Whatever this is, survivor or Esper, you're going to have to take it straight on. I wish you luck." It suddenly sounds from our coms. The general speaking to us in grave voice, knowing he will probably lose his men.
'How amazing, I thought it couldn't get worse. Ah this sucks, I can't believe I'm going to die on my first mission. Should have stayed in the military, but no I had to go seek my own fortune.' I think to myself, regretting ever getting on this ship. The despair kicking in as I realise that my chances of surviving our next encounter is minimal.
"Understood general. I hope to see you on the other side, but if I don't make it, it has been an honor working with you. And please do me the favor of throwing whoever is at fault in to space." My Lieutenant says, her voice hardened and her back straight. She looks like she is ready to fight until she draws her last breath.
'She might be ready to die, but I'm not. I don't want to die here.' I look around at these battle-hardened men and women who all seem just as ready to fight. All very respectable people, they knew that this day would come at some point in their career. It's rare to see and old mercenary. It's even rarer to see an old and happy mercenary.
'I am happy to work with these people, we all work for money, but there is a reason I joined the Zaktian Eagle. One of the most reputable companies out there. I know that these people will have my back, and in turn I'm going to have theirs. And if I survive then i guess my luck will have taken a turn for the better.' I resolve myself. Having made my internal decision I feel a calming breeze pass over me, I feel sharp and ready. I feel like I'm in my best condition.