The transport aircraft hovered at high altitude, closely monitoring the drop zone for potential aerial support or emergency evacuation. At the rear of the aircraft, the cadet team of Pyrencia Special Forces was preparing for the imminent drop.
With a signal from the supervisor, they leaped one by one into the void. The roaring wind whipped against their helmets as they descended towards the ground, the earth getting closer with every passing second.
They all landed in a tight group, weapons already raised, and scanning their surroundings. The drop zone was deserted, but it wouldn't remain so for long.
Aric raised his hand to the side of his helmet and activated the radio.
"Bravo Team to StarHawk, we're on the ground, commencing the mission. Over."
The supervisor's response was prompt.
"Copy that Bravo Team, the objective is located 1km northwest of your position. Few Grimm activity reported at the moment, but stay vigilant. Other teams have already engaged the Enemy. Over."
Aric furrowed his brow beneath his polarized visor. 'So, we're already behind schedule. We need to hurry.'
"Copy that StarHawk, we're moving. Out."
With a swift movement of his wrist, he switched to his team's radio channel, where his fellow teammates were still and vigilant.
"Alright, guys, we've got our signal. Let's move!"
As one, Bravo Team rose and headed northwest.
Their march was fast and silent, each member of Bravo Team remaining attentive to their environment. The dense and wild vegetation of Pyrencia's hostile territories could conceal many threats, and they didn't want any unpleasant surprises.
They advanced with fluidity and synchronization, in perfect harmony. Their rigorous military training and shared experience had fused them into an efficient unit. Each one knew the role of the other and was prepared to cover their teammates in any situation.
As they progressed, signs of Grimm activity began to appear. They found traces left by the sinister creatures, confirming they were approaching their objective.
Bravo Team drew closer to the SilverGlow Mine, where the Grimms were reported to be present in large numbers. They slowed their pace, moving with even greater caution. Any misstep could alert the Grimms and lead to a dangerous confrontation.
Suddenly, Aric raised his hand, signaling the team to halt. He pointed forward, indicating movement among the bushes. All of them raised their weapons, ready to react swiftly.
A lone Grimm emerged from the foliage, a Boarbatusk, easily recognizable with its boar-like appearance and bony plates. It sniffed the ground, probably catching a scent.
Without giving it a chance to notice them, Kai lunged towards the Grimm and swiftly plunged one of his twin daggers into its right eye. The creature made no noise as it collapsed, dead before hitting the ground.
Aric and the rest of Bravo Team silently joined Kai. The team leader gave a pat on the close combat fighter's shoulder, a wordless sign of appreciation for his quick reaction.
They continued their march for what felt like hours until they finally reached their destination. The mine stood before them, a dark and eerie place, but still no sign of the significant Grimm activity reported here. Strange.
"StarHawk, this is Bravo Team, there's no one here. What do your radars say?" Aric asked.
"Bravo Team, StarHawk, our radars also confirm no Grimm presence in your zone. Everything seems clear for now. Continue to monitor your surroundings and report any suspicious activity. StarHawk, over."
"We were told that Grimms were supposed to be numerous here. Where are they? Out."
"Bravo Team, StarHawk, we understand your concern. It's possible the previous intel was wrong or that the Grimms have moved. Stay vigilant and keep a close watch on the area. We'll update our information sources and provide you with new intel as soon as possible. In the meantime, maintain your position and secure the zone. StarHawk, over."
"StarHawk, Bravo Team, understood. We'll hold our position and continue to monitor the area. Inform us of any updated Grimm presence. We're ready to act if needed. Bravo Team, out."
With caution, the team entered the oppressive darkness of the SilverGlow Mine. The rocky walls seemed to close in on them as they ventured deeper inside. The faint glow of their headlamps barely illuminated the path ahead, creating dancing shadows that seemed to come alive in the darkness.
Aric, leading the group, remained vigilant, anticipating every suspicious sound or movement. Over the years, he had learned that Grimms could be elusive and deceptive, and their presence could be felt long before they revealed themselves.
As they delved deeper into the mine, sinister sounds echoed in the narrow tunnels. Eerie whispers and low growls seemed to emanate from the depths of the earth. The atmosphere was heavy, adding to the palpable tension within Bravo Team.
Suddenly, Amara caught a strange noise, a creaking sound. She raised her hand to signal the team to stop. Worried gazes turned towards her, waiting for her report.
"Do you hear that?" she whispered, her voice barely audible in the stifling silence.
Everyone strained their ears, and soon, they picked up the sound: a faint repetitive creaking from further inside the mine. It was an eerie and unsettling noise, and Aric wondered if it could be related to the presence of Grimms.
"StarHawk, this is Bravo Team. We've detected a strange sound coming from inside the mine. Possible sign of Grimm presence. Stand by for our signal. Over."
Their radio communication remained silent for a few moments, then the supervisor's voice echoed.
"Bravo Team, StarHawk. Understood. Stay on high alert. If you find any further signs of Grimms, report immediately. We're sending another team to support you. Out."
The team continued to advance cautiously, their senses on high alert. The creaking persisted, becoming more audible as they moved closer. Aric felt a surge of adrenaline, mentally preparing himself for the possibility of an imminent encounter.
Finally, they reached a large underground chamber, and what they saw left them speechless. A group of Grimms stood at the center of the chamber, led by a massive Alpha, distinguished by its glowing red eyes and imposing stature.
The sound of their arrival alerted the Grimms, who turned to face Bravo Team. A tense silence settled, broken only by the eerie creaking emitted by the Alpha. Aric gripped his weapon firmly, his gaze fixed on the Alpha. He felt a mix of fear and excitement, but he knew he had to stay focused. The Alpha was the true challenge, and if they could defeat it, the other Grimms would likely follow suit.
"Get ready," he whispered to his teammates.
Bravo Team scattered, each taking their position for the impending battle.
The Alpha let out a fierce roar, and the battle commenced.
End of Chapter 3.