Renard cleared his throat, commanding their attention. "Listen up. Command has issued a high-priority mission. This isn't a drill or some border patrol assignment. We're moving into hostile territory—enemy-controlled zones. The Metis forces have established a forward operating base deeper in the region, and we're tasked with reconnaissance and sabotage."
The room tensed, but Asher remained calm, observing the map with a sharp gaze. The projected image displayed a heavily fortified area surrounded by jagged terrain and dense forests.
"Our objective," Renard continued, "is to confirm enemy numbers, gather intel on their operations, and, if the opportunity arises, destroy their key resources. This mission is dangerous—Metis forces in the area are estimated to range from C-rank soldiers to an A-rank commander. Failure is not an option."
One soldier raised his hand hesitantly. "Captain, if they have an A-rank commander, how do we stand a chance with most of us being E or D rank?"
Renard's expression hardened. "That's why I'm leading this mission. And it's also why we have Magnus here." His eyes landed on Asher, and the squad turned to look at him. The latest episodes are on the Novel~Fire. (n)et
"Not him, someone else—and she's A-rank like me," Renard said, chuckling as he led the way, the squad following closely behind.
"Asher is like you, an E-rank. How do you expect him to kill or defeat a B-rank? Maybe he can fight a C-rank, but not to the point where he could actually kill them," Renard said, glancing at Asher.
Asher nodded in agreement, keeping his expression neutral.
Though I can kill a C-rank, actually, he thought silently but refrained from voicing it. Instead, he mirrored their doubts outwardly, choosing not to expose the full extent of his abilities.
Renard smirked. "Stay focused, Magnus. You're here to observe and support, not take unnecessary risks."
Asher simply nodded again, keeping his thoughts to himself.
They soon reached a clearing where they encountered another squad. Leading them was an imposing woman with blue-tinged hair that seemed to flow like flames.
"Folks, this is Myria Magnus, also known as the 'Blue Terror,'" Renard announced.
Asher studied her carefully. She was beautiful, but what truly caught his attention was her title. In the Magnus family, elites were given the moniker "Terror" to signify their status. Asher himself was destined to earn the name Red Terror, but only if he reached S-rank or achieved a significant contribution to the world.
So, she's already earned the title of Blue Terror. That means she's done something remarkable, Asher thought, his gaze sharpening.
He recalled what the title signified: Blue Terror referred to the perfect integration of two powerful abilities—the Magnus family's Blood Ruler and the Hellion family's Blue Hell Flames. Together, they created a unique power, Blue Blood, combining the destructive heat and intensity of hellfire with the control and regeneration of blood manipulation.
Renard stepped forward, shaking hands with Myria. "Good to see you again, Myria. It's been a while since we last worked together."
Myria gave a slight nod, her sharp gaze briefly landing on Asher. "And this one? The infamous Asher Magnus, I assume."
Asher returned her look with a calm expression, silently acknowledging her observation. He knew this encounter would reveal much about his standing within the family and the military.
Renard nodded as he addressed his squad. "We have a chance to test ourselves against some of the best from each squad," he said, gesturing toward another individual with a punk-style haircut. "Meet Herman Grish. He's the best of Myria's Squad, Alpha Squad 12. He's a commoner, but he's outperformed many noble family kids in his rank—and yes, even some of mine," Renard added with a chuckle, clearly earning some grudging respect from his own squad.
Myria nodded in agreement. "Herman has earned his place among us," she said with a sharp tone, silencing any skeptical murmurs. The members of her squad, mostly composed of nobles, gritted their teeth but remained quiet, while Herman smiled confidently, seemingly unfazed by their reactions.
Asher observed Herman carefully, nodding slightly before returning his gaze to Renard.
Renard cleared his throat and continued. "Today, Myria and I will oversee the mission personally. As for the rest of you, you'll form teams of five and take on the Metis targets in team combat—five versus one. I believe you can handle that," he said with a confident grin.
Both squads murmured affirmations, nodding their heads as they prepared for the challenge ahead.
Renard then added, "But Asher and Herman will work as a team of two versus one." He glanced at both Asher and Herman before continuing.
Myria smirked and interjected, "Relax, we'll take care of the B-rank ones ourselves, leaving only the C-ranks for you to fight." She paused, observing the confused expressions on some of their faces. "What's the matter? Did you expect a leisurely mission? This is your chance to prove yourselves."
The squads quickly straightened up, understanding the gravity of the challenge. Asher and Herman exchanged glances, a mutual acknowledgment of the test they were about to face.
"Now, go on and form your teams," Renard and Myria said as both squads dispersed to organize themselves.
Asher, on the other hand, approached Herman, who was also making his way toward him. Asher extended his hand for a handshake, and Herman clasped it firmly as he sized Asher up.
"My ability is Red Lightning Blood," Asher said, introducing himself plainly.
Herman nodded and replied, "My ability is called Amplifier. I can enhance anything—strength, speed, durability, or even magical power—depending on what I focus on." He gestured to the futuristic weapon strapped to his wrist. "And this," he added with a grin, "isn't just any gun. It uses Gamma energy technology, not traditional gunpowder."
" so you can expect heavy firepower from me" he said smiling as Asher nodded.
Asher's eyes flicked to the device, a sleek, sci-fi-inspired gun with glowing blue etchings running along its barrel. "Interesting," Asher commented, his tone neutral but intrigued.
Herman smirked. "It's my trump card. But I don't rely on it alone. I've taken down plenty of opponents with just my hands."