At Least 10 Seconds

Fallow and SF hurried toward the staging area. As they walked, SF adjusted the metal straps protecting his Injectors, making sure they were secure.

When they arrived, Unit Two was already waiting.

“OoOo, look who finally decided to show up,” Billy called out at the sight of them entering.

Neither SF nor Fallow responded. They simply strode toward the planning table.

As they approached, Fallow spoke up. “Hey, SF, would you mind if I made a suggestion for today’s strategy?”

SF glanced at her but kept his eyes on the table. “Well, yes, of course, Commander.”

Fallow’s tone shifted to something formal—proper, almost unnatural coming from her. “I want to put B2-EU on the front lines. I think it’s time he uses his knives instead of that sniper.”

Billy immediately protested. “Hold on, I don’t think that woul—”

But SF cut him off. “Well, I must say, Commander, it’s a daring strategy, but I see no reason to deny it.”

Billy went pale. “S-Sir,” his voice wavered. “I apologize for my behavior… please don’t send me to the front.”

Billy’s inability to fight in close combat was well known—though he stubbornly denied it. But now, even he was showing signs that deep down, he knew the truth.

“Billy, I can’t believe you fell for that.” Henry placed a hand on his shoulder. “They’re clearly messing with you.”

Billy looked between them, confused.

“Yeah, can’t you see Fallow’s trying not to grin?” Penny chimed in.

“And don’t forget that SF is being formal to someone outside of Carol.” Rey added.

Billy hesitated before forcing out an awkward laugh. “Ha ha… yeah, of course, I knew they were joking. That’s why I played along.”

Henry smirked, letting go of his shoulder. “Sure, Billy. But let’s be honest—if you can’t even handle SF and Fallow’s humor, I doubt you’d last five seconds in close combat.”

Billy scoffed. “Hey! I’d survive at least ten seconds.”

“Sure you would,” Henry replied sarcastically, already turning away.

SF and Fallow stood in front of the mission briefing displayed on a screen. SF read it in silence while Fallow jotted down some notes before heading back to the others, who had been gearing up in the meantime.

“So, what kind of mission is it today?” Penny asked while stretching.

SF walked over to a chair and sat down without answering.

“Hello? A question was asked, and no answer was given,” Penny repeated, emphasizing each word.

Fallow glanced at her notes. “I guess I’ll answer, then.” She held up the paper she had written on earlier. “We’ve been hired by Varkadia of the Coactus Union again.”

She paused, waiting for any reactions.

“So, the same as always. I don’t get them—they hired us for some small rebel group, then to attack a commander from their own military.” Billy spoke while cleaning his rifle.

“Billy, as usual, you don’t see the bigger picture.” Rey adjusted her glasses.

Billy frowned. “Oh? If you’re so smart, then tell me the bigger picture, you small human.”

Rey sighed. “Varkadia is just one part of The Coactus Union. The UAF is their combined military force, which means there were probably suspicions of disloyalty or internal conflict. That’s why they’re hiring us—to take out their ‘trash.’” She finished her explanation and looked at Billy. “And by the way, you’re not much taller than me.”

Fallow watched the exchange with amusement. “Anyway, everyone, our job is to deal with some rebels spreading rumors about the UAF’s defeat. They’re also taking credit for our fights.”

SF remained quiet, lost in thought.

If these rebels have enough information to take credit in a believable way… then they must have been there.

SF absentmindedly tapped his finger against his knee.

That means it’s Alis… and the ones I let live. I won’t make that mistake again.

“Finally, another mission.” Blackout said

Clue walked beside Flame.

“Yeah, it’s nice to get outside again.” They agreed.

Their conversation was overheard by Pulse, who chimed in. “And it’s also nice to see everyone again.”

A bit further back, Fallow was walking with Slick and Sharpshot, accompanying their new members. (Wo, Ruth, Less, Corp and See.

At the front, SF and Havoc walked side by side.

“I know it’s not my place to ask, but… shouldn’t you take the serum by now?” Havoc glanced at SF’s arm, where his three doses sat untouched.

SF looked down at his left arm before answering. “Yeah… I guess so.”

He reached over with his right hand, twisting the vial on one of the injectors. As he did, he cracked a small smile.

Within seconds, his red hair and glowing white eyes emerged.