Punctured Skies

Kikaru nodded, her face impassive. "Understood."

Jiece's eyes narrowed slightly, then swept over the group again. "Good. Do any of you have other questions?"

Colby opened his mouth but hesitated, deciding against pushing further. Paul leaned back against the side of the vehicle, muttering something under his breath. Kikaru stood firm, her expression unreadable.

A few hours passed as the soldiers prepared, the rhythmic hum of equipment and muffled chatter filling the air. By the time the clock struck noon, the squads were gathered in an open field, sitting in small groups. Laughter and quiet conversations rippled through the ranks as the soldiers eased their nerves.

Kikaru, Colby, and Paul sat together off to the side, their posture more tense than the others. Colby broke the silence, chuckling nervously. "Really hoping they don't actually need us for this."