The Retrieval Was Never a Request

The forest snapped awake with motion.

Kael's squad moved first—no shouts, no theatrics. Precision-born violence sliced through the underbrush as if the land itself was under command. These weren't soldiers testing strength. These were enforcers delivering consequence.

Maverick ignited instantly, flames rushing across his knuckles as he hammered two attackers back with explosive strikes. Kenneth charged with seismic power, cracking the terrain with every step. Milo blurred between positions, summoning clones and momentum-shattering illusions. Johnny spun with blades flashing, carving space as chaos unfolded around him.

For a moment, the Ocean Brothers held. The rhythm was tight—cracks sealed by instinct, pain balanced with fury.

But the tide was no longer theirs.