Transport jets, laden with passengers and weapons, dispersed to their designated destinations. Merely an hour into their journey, the jet en route to Dusk City encountered an unexpected disaster.
"Increase the altitude!"
"We are being attacked by a sentient tree of unknown strength level," the scout in charge urgently reported. Panic ensued as passengers witnessed a branch twisting towards them, prompting alarmed shouts throughout the cabin.
"Noted."
Maintaining composure, the pilot, unflustered by the situation, acknowledged the scout and made the necessary adjustments. Little did they know that this was just the beginning of their troubles.
"We will be arriving at our destination in thirty minutes."
Shortly after the announcement, a swarm of black crows appeared, resembling a dark cloud, flying at an astonishing speed. The pilot, constrained by limited fuel and unable to divert their route, braced for impact as the crows crashed into the jet, surrounding it and launching an assault.
"Low visibility. I repeat, low visibility."
Fortunately, the jet's robust structure proved sturdy enough to withstand the onslaught. After a few minutes of relentless pecking and scratching, the swarm of crows dispersed, leaving the sky clear once again.
As the transport jets descended upon the outskirts of the city, the army of guards, comprising both recruits and seasoned soldiers, observed the landscape below. The city's mosaic of buildings and streets, coupled with the dense forest outside the city, painted an ominous picture. The lush, green forest hinted at potential dangers, harboring unknown beasts.
Smoke billowed in the distance, a somber reminder of the impending threat awaiting them. The once vibrant and bustling city now stood on the precipice of a precarious situation.
Colonel Fracas, having received notice of the meeting's outcomes, awaited reinforcements at the barracks. The responsibility weighed heavily on him as he anticipated the arrival of fresh recruits during a perilous time, increasing the risks of mortality.
Upon landing, the recruits disembarked with urgency, and their weapons were carefully unloaded. Led by one of the guards, they were guided to a makeshift command center in front of Colonel Fracas's office, where the gravity of the situation hung in the air as the Royal flag continue to solemnly fly. The military leaders briefed the recruits on the unfolding crisis.
"Listen carefully, soldiers," Colonel Fracas addressed them. "The city and the Kingdom at large are facing unprecedented challenges, and you are here to fortify our defenses. You are here to reinforce our fallen comrades. We'll be coordinating with the local forces to ensure a unified front against the looming threat."
Brigadier General Sebas added, "Your training has prepared you for this moment. We need your dedication, discipline, and courage. The kingdom relies on each one of you to stand firm and protect our people."
Despite the weight of the situation, the recruits stood tall and resolute. They understood the immense responsibility thrust upon them, and a collective determination surged through their ranks. After a brief session with the military leaders, the recruits were dismissed and led to their temporary lodgings.
Meanwhile, the jet had been refueled, ready for another journey to transport recruits and weapons to other assigned cities.
The return journey that was supposed to commence in two days was postponed as most of the injured guards are still yet to recover.
✓✓✓✓✓
Louis was almost done with the analysis he was carrying out and he decided to check on Zero and his team.
"Any update?"
"Nothing much. A transport jet made of mixtures of alloys and beast bones came in, bringing men and weapons to replace the dead guards who fought valiantly."
"It seems to be stopping in other cities before returning to the capital."
"Any taken step?"
"You can be sure Boss. I already sent 003 to find a way to follow the jet to the capital which has already been successfully completed.
"Okay", Louis said as he turned back to one of the computers and continued recording and analyzing observations.
✓✓✓✓✓
Zero who just finished call with Louis turned back to his three remaining subordinates to start the plan he already told them about.
001 under the order of Zero morphed into a strange bird after leaving a range of activities. The bird flew into the barracks and entered Captain's quarters, it flew directly into the room where the captain from Rosette City.
He was still awake, pondering the uncertainties of the future and envisioning life after retirement as he was close to retirement (waiting for replacement or promotion of someone among his men), surrounded by his wives and children. (Although that may never be realized because of impending storm).
Just as he was about to immerse himself in the warmth of that daydream, a sudden knock on the door abruptly jolted him back to reality.
"Who might that be? I don't have any friends who would visit me, especially not at this hour," he murmured, a hint of irritation in his voice as he approached the door.
Opening it with annoyance, he was surprised to find no one in sight. Suspecting a possible prank from one of his junior officers, he cautiously glanced outside his room before turning back. To his bewilderment, a man clad in black camouflage now occupied the chair he had just vacated, exuding an air of calm assurance.
Startled, he demanded, "Who are you, and how did you get in here?", he questioned as he searched around for his weapon.
The barracks is one of the most secure places in the city.
The man in black slowly rose from the chair, his gaze unwavering. "No need for alarm, Captain," he said, revealing an unsettling knowledge of the retired officer's rank. "I represent an organization that recognizes and values loyalty. Loyalty, Captain, is an invaluable asset, and I believe we can offer you benefits beyond your wildest imagination."
The officer about to retire with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion in his eyes, folded his arms across his chest. "What organization are you talking about, and what benefits are you offering?"
The man in black leaned forward, his tone conspiratorial. "Captain, imagine a life where retirement is not just a quiet existence but a continuation of influence and power. Picture financial security, privileges for your family, and a life beyond the ordinary."
The retired officer's eyes narrowed as he processed the tantalizing offer. "And in return?"
A sly smile played on the 003's lips. "In return, Captain, all we ask is your allegiance, your loyalty to our cause. Your skills and experience will not go unnoticed or unrewarded."
Silence lingered in the room as the retired officer weighed the consequences and benefits of such an alliance. The man in black patiently awaited his response, knowing that the allure of the offered benefits might just tip the scales in favor of a new allegiance.
"Can you give me some time to think about it?"
"No Problem. You can consider this two portions as a token of sincerity. One to increase your strengths and the other to heal your men, but if you dilute the second portion it will hasten the healing of all injured men, just few drops on the wound."
"We will be back", he said as he disappears.