Not A Small-Town Girl

the tension. As the leader of the Dragon Assault Squad, he had the authority to bring order. "If you’re going to argue, get out."

Luke, the quiet leader of the Lion Assault Squad, spoke calmly, "Our team reported that Shadow entered the border, but their plane was bombed on arrival. Shadow retaliated, taking out the attackers. It’s unclear whether it was Hades or Wulf Clan, but only they could’ve done it."

"It sounds like they’re already turning on each other," Justin observed. "War’s coming soon. Why not push things along?"

Luke agreed. "I’m with Justin on this one."

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s get to fighting!" Maximus stood, eager for action.

Justin gave him a disapproving look. "You’re all muscle and no brain. Do you ever stop to think before you act?"

Maximus’ face reddened. "You’re dead, Justin. I’m going to settle this with you." Elliot rubbed his temples, exhausted. "Enough! We’re not here to bicker. Our first mission is to locate the lab and rescue the hostages."

carefully to the reports, his expression stern. "They’ve taken Professor Erk hostage. This mission is about more than

us handle this. We’ll get it

brains to get this done. We’ll

ready for combat," Luke

for this mission. We can’t bring too many-it would be too obvious. Each squad leader should pick two of their

"I agree with Elliot. This mission will be a joint operation between all four Assault Squads, and

sir," Elliot, Justin, Maximus, and Luke said

gathered the herbs she needed and went to the lab. She’d already figured out the antidote for the virus; she just had to turn it into pills. After a few hours, she had the antidote

her subordinates and had the infected men take it. She’d made enough to give to everyone,

still a lot to

the antidote. The itching stopped, the pain eased,

relief, couldn’t believe the transformation. After days of suffering, they were finally feeling like