The sun had barely crested the horizon when Alex and his team returned to their makeshift headquarters. The early morning light cast long shadows across the landscape, but the sense of relief that followed their victory at the factory was palpable. Yet, despite the outward calm, a sense of foreboding lingered, gnawing at the edges of Alex's thoughts.
Inside the command center, the remnants of the battle were already being discussed. Maps were spread out, and the air was thick with the sound of hushed conversations. Alex found himself lost in thought as he observed the scene, his mind racing through the implications of the previous night's events.
"Alex, we need to discuss the next steps," Sara's voice broke through his reverie. She had approached quietly, her concern evident in her eyes. "What's our plan now?"