Chapter 31-32-33

Chapter 31 – Reports and Restrictions

M's office, in the heart of MI6 headquarters, was silent. It was early evening, but the agency's chief was still at her desk, poring over reports and sorting through classified information. The soft light from the lamp illuminated her face as her eyes scanned a series of documents marked "Top Secret."

A light knock on the door announced the arrival of 007, James Bond. He entered, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit, his posture casual but watchful. His expression was serious, and he carried a thin briefcase in one hand.

"M," Bond began, his voice deep and controlled. "I have news about Rider."

M looked up, interested.

"Ah, yes. Young Rider. What have you discovered, 007?"

Bond closed the door behind him, ensuring that their conversation remained private. He walked over to the desk and placed the file in front of her before speaking.

"He did it. Alex Rider has passed the SAS course and is now a member of A Squadron's Sabre Team. From what I understand, he is the youngest operator in the regiment's history."

M was silent for a moment, processing this information.

"It was expected," she said finally. "He has the training, the experience and the determination. But the SAS… that's a trajectory that even I hadn't foreseen."

Bond nodded, but his gaze darkened.

"M, there's something you need to know. Since he joined the SAS, my ability to monitor him has been reduced to almost zero. The level of secrecy surrounding the regiment's operations and members is absolute, even for someone like me."

M leaned back in her chair, folding her hands on the desk.

"Explain."

Bond continued:

"Information about SAS activities is strictly controlled. The anonymity of operators is strictly protected to ensure their safety and the effectiveness of their missions. I cannot access detailed records of their operations, and even trying to obtain such information would arouse suspicion."

M frowned, realizing the implications.

"So we're blind?"

Bond shook his head.

"Not completely. We know he's active in A Squadron, and there are rumors that he specializes in CQB, as well as being an exceptional sniper. But beyond that… there's not much else."

M stood up, walking to the window of her office. She looked out at the city, the lights of London glowing against the dark sky.

— "Bond, Rider is a valuable asset. He may not be under our direct command, but he is still someone to watch. He has unique skills and a track record that sets him apart from any other military operator. But most importantly, he is young."

Bond moved closer to stand beside her. — "Young, yes, but not inexperienced. He has survived more high-risk situations than many of our seasoned agents. The question, M, is what we do now. We cannot interfere with his career without attracting unwanted attention. And even if we wanted to, the SAS will not allow it."

M turned to Bond, her expression determined. — "We do not need to interfere. But we do need to be prepared. If he ever decides to leave the SAS, I want him to know that MI6 is open to the public. He could be the most valuable agent we have ever had."

Bond smiled slightly. — "If he accepts, of course. Rider does not seem the type to like being manipulated."

— "That's true," M admitted, returning to his desk.

Bond opened the folder he had brought with him, pulling out a few sheets and placing them on M's desk.

"Here is everything I have been able to gather about his training in the SAS. He has excelled in every phase of the course, especially in SERE. The instructors have praised his mental and physical toughness. He is also known for his skill in hand-to-hand combat and his mastery of confined space operations."

M scanned the pages quickly, her eyes taking in the details.

"What about Sabre Team? Is there anything else about them?"

"Not much," Bond replied. "They are one of the most active teams in A Squadron. They operate on high-risk missions, often in hostile territory. Rider will be under constant pressure, but given his track record, I believe he will adapt well."

M nodded, but she did not look entirely satisfied.

— "The only thing that worries me is that he hasn't had time to live like a normal person yet. Since losing his uncle, he's been dragged into situations that no one should have to face, especially at his age."

Bond nodded, considering M's words. — "Maybe the SAS is what he needs right now. Discipline, purpose, and a team he can trust. He's chosen that path, M. And honestly, I think he's exactly where he should be."

M closed the folder and looked at Bond with a resolute expression. — "Very well, 007. Keep monitoring him as best you can, but without attracting attention. If you must, use discreet contacts within the Ministry of Defense. I want regular updates, even if they are fragments."

Bond nodded.

"Understood. But I must warn you: Rider is not a boy who likes to be followed. He has noticed me before, and now, with his SAS training, it will be even more difficult."

"Then be even more careful," M replied dryly.

Before leaving, Bond made one last observation:

"You know, M, there is something interesting about him. Despite everything he has been through, there is still something in him that many of us have lost over the years."

"And what would that be, 007?"

"Idealism. He truly believes he can make a difference."

M stood silently as Bond left, pondering his words.

Alone in her office, M opened a confidential file with the complete history of the Rider family. The name Ian Rider, Alex's uncle, had appeared repeatedly in reports on past missions.

He had been one of MI6's finest agents, a man whose loyalty to the crown was unquestionable. Now Alex was following in his family's footsteps, albeit on a different path. M knew that the Rider name had always meant service to the crown, in one form or another.

"Perhaps he will find his way back to us in the end," she said to herself.

Closing the file, M felt a mixture of pride and worry. Alex Rider was a rare talent, a young man who had overcome unimaginable challenges. But at the same time, she knew that the world he now inhabited was dangerous and unpredictable.

As she turned out the lights in In her office, M made a silent promise: she would keep Alex Rider on her radar, always ready to lend a hand when he needed it.

Chapter 32 – Helmand Mission

The Hereford sun had barely risen when the Sabre team of A Squadron, 22 SAS received the call. Gathered in the briefing room, Captain Alan Shepherd, an experienced man with sharp eyes and a calm demeanor, adjusted a projector in the center of the room. Around him, the rest of the team Corporal Reeves, Sergeant Carter, and Troopers Lennox, Collins, and Alex Rider waited in silence.

"Gentlemen," Shepherd began, his tone grave, "our next mission will be in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. We will be joining other coalition forces to reinforce security in the region. We will be operating from a forward base in the middle of one of the most hostile areas of the country."

He began to display maps and aerial photographs of the region.

— "The base is shared between several forces, including the British Army and the US Marines. There are rumors that Prince Harry may be there on a combat deployment, but that doesn't directly concern us."

Alex, sitting next to Collins, raised an eyebrow. — "Prince Harry? In Helmand?" Alex muttered to himself.

Collins, next to him, smiled. — "He's famous for wanting to be on the front lines. But that doesn't change anything for us, Rider. We'll do our job and leave the royals out of it."

Shepherd continued. — "Our role will be multifaceted. Reconnaissance patrols, operations in Taliban-held villages, and support for intelligence missions. There will also be the possibility of direct missions involving the elimination of high-value targets."

The captain paused before concluding. — "This will be a difficult deployment. The terrain is treacherous, the enemy knows the environment, and tensions are high. We have two weeks to prepare. All clear?"

— "Yes, sir," the team responded in unison.

Over the next few days, Alex immersed himself in preparations. As part of the routine, the team spent hours on physical training, equipment inspections, and studies of the region. Alex, always meticulous, spent his nights reviewing maps, studying the villages around the base and the patrol routes.

One night, as he adjusted the scope of his rifle, the L115A3, Lennox sat down next to him.

— "Have you ever been in a place like this before, Rider?"

Alex shrugged.

— "I've been to Iraq, but Helmand seems to be a different story. I hear the terrain is a nightmare."

— "Yeah," Lennox agreed. "Scorching heat, open deserts, and mountains full of enemy hideouts. But I hear you adapt quickly."

Alex smiled slightly.

— "I do my best."

The rest of the team often joked about Alex's age, as he was the youngest of the group. Despite this, Alex's maturity and impeccable performance in training quickly earned everyone's respect.

A conversation in the mess hall revealed the relaxed atmosphere between them.

— "So, Rider," Reeves said, between bites of his food. "Do you think you'll impress Prince Harry with your legendary marksmanship?"

— "I just hope he's not expecting a show," Alex replied with a smile. "I'd rather avoid attention."

Carter laughed, setting his plate aside.

— "Good luck with that, kid. Because if you keep racking up confirmed kills, you'll end up a walking legend before you're 25."

Before the trip, Alex took some time off to visit Jack at his home. They sat in the living room, the aroma of fresh tea filling the room. Jack was clearly worried, but tried to hide it behind a forced smile.

— "Helmand, huh?" she said, stirring her tea. "I hear it's one of the most dangerous regions in Afghanistan."

Alex nodded, his expression serious. — "Yeah, but I'll be with the best team I can. Captain Shepherd is solid, and everyone else knows what they're doing. I'll be fine, Jack."

She sighed, looking at him with a mixture of pride and apprehension. — "You know you don't have to prove anything to anyone, right? You've done so much already, Alex."

— "It's not about proving anything," he said. "It's about making a difference. And honestly, Jack, I think I was born to do this."

Jack smiled, even though his eyes were watering. — "You have the heart of a hero, Alex. But just promise me you'll take care of yourself. Promise?"

Alex took her hand. — "I promise."

Two weeks later, the team boarded a C-130 Hercules bound for Afghanistan. The atmosphere on the aircraft was tense but controlled. Alex watched the other soldiers around him, many chatting or adjusting their equipment.

Beside him, Captain Shepherd was reading a report. Without looking up, he commented,

"You're quiet, Rider."

Alex shrugged.

"I'm thinking about what's in store for us."

Shepherd finally looked at him, a slight smile on his face.

"Good mindset. Stay vigilant, but remember: trust your team. Everyone here knows what they're doing, including you"

Alex nodded, feeling the weight of the captain's words.

The base in Helmand was exactly as Alex had imagined: a barren environment, surrounded by concrete barriers, barbed wire, and guard towers. Chinook helicopters circled overhead, while armored vehicles like Mastiffs and Jackals were parked in rows.

Soldiers were everywhere, some cleaning weapons, others assembling equipment. The atmosphere was one of organization and readiness.

Upon stepping off the transport, the Sabre team was met by a base officer, who led them to their designated location.

"Welcome to Helmand," the officer said. "The surrounding area is relatively calm at the moment, but that could change at any moment. Stay tuned."

As they walked through the base, Alex and his team heard rumors about Prince Harry. A few soldiers quietly commented on his presence, but no one knew exactly where he was or what he was doing.

Collins, walking beside Alex, muttered,

"I bet he's with the armored vehicles. They say he's good with the Scimitars."

"Let's hope he stays out of trouble," Alex replied.

Carter, overhearing the conversation, chuckled.

"What about you, Rider? Are you going to keep your reputation as a Scary here too?"

Alex just smiled.

"If necessary."

The next day, the team began preparations for their first mission in Helmand. They would be briefed in full later, but they knew it would be a patrol in a sensitive area.

As he cleaned his rifle, Alex felt the familiar excitement before a mission. He was in his element, and although he knew the dangers, he was determined to do his part.

In the distance, helicopters kicked up dust as they circled over the base. Alex looked to the horizon and felt his adrenaline begin to rise.

He was ready to face whatever came his way, knowing that, as always, his goal was clear: protect his team, accomplish the mission, and make sure everyone got home.

Chapter 33 – Dual Specialization: Sniper and CQB

Operations in Helmand began to intensify, and A Squadron's Sabre team quickly found their stride. The Afghan landscape was unforgiving, ranging from open plains to labyrinthine villages, requiring Alex Rider to use both his sniper skills and his expertise in close quarters combat (CQB).

In one of the team's first operations, they were tasked with neutralizing a small group of insurgents who were using an abandoned village as a base to coordinate attacks. Alex was positioned at an elevated overlook while the rest of the team advanced on the terrain.

Lying on the rocky ground, Alex adjusted the scope of his L115A3, studying the targets through the optics.

"Captain Shepherd, this is Rider," Alex radioed. "Visual positive on three targets. Two armed with AK-47s, the third with an RPG. They are near the main entrance to the building."

Shepherd calmly replied, "Roger that. Keep watch. If they show hostility, engage."

Alex stood still, his eyes fixed on the targets. The calm of his training took over, and he waited patiently. Time seemed to slow down, until one of the insurgents raised his RPG and pointed it in the team's direction.

"Hostility confirmed," Alex warned.

With a single shot, Alex took out the RPG wielder. The other two insurgents panicked, but before they could react, Alex quickly adjusted his aim and fired again. Both targets were eliminated with surgical precision.

"Three targets down. Area clear," Alex reported.

"Good work, Rider," Shepherd replied. "Sabre Team, move in."

A few weeks later, the Sabre team received a new mission: to capture an insurgent leader hiding in one of the most dangerous villages in the region. This time, Alex put aside his L115A3 and picked up his HK416 equipped with a tactical flashlight and holographic sight.

The briefing had been clear: the target was located in a fortified house, with narrow hallways and small rooms, a perfect environment to test Alex's CQB skills.

"Rider, you're with us on the ground this time," Shepherd said before the operation. "Your skills in confined spaces will be essential. Stay alert."

As the team entered the village, the silence was almost deafening. Only the sound of muffled footsteps broke the tension. Alex, in the rear, moved with precision, keeping his weapon aimed and his senses sharp.

As they approached the target's house, Carter signaled with his hand for Alex and Collins to take the flanks of the entrance. With a swift movement, Reeves placed a charge of explosives on the door, creating an opening for entry.

— "Sabre, let's go!" Shepherd shouted.

The group advanced through the interior of the house, where narrow hallways forced close combat. Alex moved fluidly, checking corners and clearing rooms. In one of the rooms, an armed insurgent suddenly appeared. Alex reacted instantly, firing two well-aimed shots into the man's chest.

— "Clear room," Alex declared, moving to the next point.

Finally, they reached the room where the insurgent leader was hiding. He tried to resist, but was quickly restrained by Collins and Carter. The mission was a success, with no casualties among the team.

— "Good work, gentlemen," Shepherd said as they retreated. "Another successful mission for Sabre."

Between operations, Alex often reflected on how his skills as a sniper and CQB specialist made him a unique asset to the team. In casual conversations around the base, Collins often mentioned this.

— "You know, Rider," he said over lunch, "it's not every day you meet someone who can stand still for hours aiming from a kilometer away and then lead a tactical entry into a tight corridor the next day."

Alex smiled modestly.

— "I just do what the mission requires."

Reeves laughed.

— "Yeah, but you do it better than most. Let's face it, you're the youngest here and you're teaching us a few things."

— "I was just lucky I got good training," Alex replied, deflecting attention from himself.

The respect Alex earned on the Sabre team was built not only on his skills, but also on his humble attitude and willingness to help. He often trained with Lennox and Collins at the base, sharing tips on accuracy and CQB strategies.

During a quiet evening, while everyone was gathered in the common area, Shepherd commented:

"You know, Rider, you have the right mindset for the SAS. It's rare to find someone so versatile and focused."

Alex just nodded, but internally he felt pride. He knew he was exactly where he was supposed to be.

The following weeks brought more challenges, but Alex continued to prove his worth both as a sniper and as a CQB expert. He was undoubtedly an asset to the Sabre team, and each operation reinforced his reputation as one of the most talented soldiers of his generation.

As the sun set over Helmand, Alex gazed at the horizon, his rifle resting at his side. He knew the war was far from over, but he was ready to face whatever challenge came his way, always with the same goal: to protect his team and accomplish his mission.

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