Story 494: The Infernal Ambush

The team barely had time to catch their breath as the collapsing inferno illuminated the midnight sky. Embers floated around them, a fiery snowstorm crackling with malice. The smell of burning wood and chemicals lingered in the air, clinging to their gear like a haunting memory.

"We’re not out of the woods yet," Commander Rook muttered, his voice muffled through his tactical mask. "This wasn’t just a trap—it was a warning."

Before anyone could respond, a high-pitched whistling sound pierced the air. Ghost’s sharp reflexes kicked in as he shouted, "Incoming!"

A fiery projectile smashed into the debris of the burning house, detonating on impact and sending shockwaves through the ground. The explosion reignited the blaze, sending sparks and molten shrapnel flying in all directions.