Chapter 228: Architect
"Hostile contact! Defensive perimeter! Secure the Minister!" Rhys Graves’ command cut through the chaos.
What seconds ago had been a methodical search operation shifted instantly into a coordinated defensive maneuver. STF units reformed around Henry Bates in a protective formation, weapons raised, every rifle trained toward the source of the blast. No hesitation. No panic. Only combat protocol.
They were deep in hostile territory—and not against scattered raiders, but against first-generation enchanted mutants. Yet neither the soldiers nor Henry Bates, whose rank positioned him among Shelter City 9’s most critical figures, showed the slightest trace of fear or hesitation.
Their expressions remained composed, eyes sharp, and posture steady. Their focus was absolute—fixed on the blast site with the unwavering discipline of men who saw their mission not as duty, but as conviction.
Seconds passed.
The silence, already heavy, thickened further until something moved.
A figure began to rise from the center of the blast zone.
"Wings?" Rhys was the first to speak, his voice low as he keyed his comms. "All units, visual contact. No hostile action detected. Initiate support protocol."
Then he turned to Henry as he said with a chuckle. ’’Looks like we found the entrance.’’
As the command relayed through comms, STF units smoothly shifted formation. Defensive postures eased, weapons lowered just enough to signal readiness without compromise. New perimeter positions were taken, optimized for immediate support. But Henry Bates didn’t move.