Chapter 22: Changin Scenery
Elias stiffened for a moment before turning back toward her. He gave a small nod. "Of course, Ela—Platoon Commander Elara," he said with a smirk, his tone edging on teasing.
Elara rolled her eyes but handed a clipboard to the pink-haired soldier. "Sergeant Rylen, take this report back to HQ and file it. I'll meet you in the training room after breakfast."
Rylen accepted the clipboard with a crisp salute. "Understood, Platoon Commander. It shouldn't take long to deliver this and return to Alpha Base."
Elara turned to the rest of her team. "The rest of you, report back to your individual units and proceed with the day's assignments."
With a slight bow, the soldiers responded in unison, "Yes, Platoon Commander," before dispersing. The quiet efficiency of their movements gave Elias a faint sense of awe as he watched them leave.
"Any reason you wanted to see me in particular, Elara?" Elias asked, crossing his arms casually.
Her expression softened slightly, though her voice remained firm. "You mentioned that man was after you—and your shard. Any idea how he found you or even knew you had one?"
Elias shook his head. "No idea. But whatever tipped him off, it wasn't anything I did. He didn't know my name—just called me 'boy.' My guess? Some kind of detection system."
"Detection system?" Elara tilted her head, considering the idea. "Why do you think that?"