Chapter 5
The day following General Carson Brad's shocking announcement, the entire base was teeming with activity. Soldiers, civilians, medics, and engineers moved hastily, each fulfilling their designated duties. Anxiety hung thick in the air, but there was also a growing sense of determination.
Ray woke up in a small room he was sharing with five others. The accommodations were modest—two bunk beds and a table in the corner. He stretched and rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the weariness. Memories of the previous day came rushing back, filling him with both fear and resolve.
"Ray, get up! We're expected at the training grounds in 30 minutes," one of his roommates, a young woman named Clara, said urgently.
"Yeah, yeah... I'm coming," he replied groggily.
After a quick meal at the base's crowded cafeteria, Ray and the others were escorted to the training grounds. General Brad stood at the center of the field, surrounded by high-ranking officers and state-of-the-art military vehicles.
"Listen up, everyone!" the General's voice boomed through the loudspeakers. "This is no ordinary training. Each one of you, whether young or old, will be equipped with the skills needed to defend humanity. You are not just civilians anymore—you are the last line of defense for our survival!"
The crowd murmured uneasily, but the General's commanding presence silenced them quickly.
"Today, we begin with basic weapons training. Tomorrow, we'll advance to vehicle operations and aerial maneuvers. Remember, hesitation costs lives. Follow orders, learn fast, and fight with everything you have!"
Ray was handed a lightweight rifle specially designed to penetrate the creatures' tough hide. An instructor showed him how to aim, reload, and fire. The first few attempts were clumsy, but he improved with each shot.