The cold was biting, the wind howling through the trees like a warning from the land itself. But I didn't have time to think about nature's threats—we had bigger problems on the horizon. The Black Ravagers weren't just some small-time raiders; they were a well-organized, ruthless group that would take whatever they wanted. If we weren't ready, we'd lose everything.
Ray returned from scouting the perimeter with a grim look. "We've set up noise traps along the western side and tripwires leading to the outer bunkers. If they come that way, we'll hear them."
"That's assuming they take the obvious route," I said.
Ray nodded. "If they're smart, they'll send scouts first. That's why we need to eliminate them before they report back."
I turned to my system, opening the blueprint I had unlocked for the tactical turret. My hands worked fast, assembling the parts while Daniel assisted me. The system's guidance made it easier, like an invisible presence feeding me knowledge in real time.
System Notification
Tactical Auto-Turret 30% Complete…
I glanced at the others. "We don't just need to defend—we need to send a message. If we hit their scouts hard enough, they'll think twice before trying again."
Sam, still recovering but eager to help, stepped forward. "You want to take the fight to them?"
"Not exactly," I said. "But if we can pick them off before they regroup, we can weaken their assault before it even begins."
Ray crossed his arms. "A preemptive strike."
"Exactly."
The First Contact
Hours passed, the bunker tense with quiet anticipation. I had my rifle ready, Daniel beside me, while Ray and a few others took positions along the perimeter.
Then, movement.
Through my scope, I spotted them—three figures moving cautiously through the snow, dressed in scavenged gear, rifles slung across their backs.
"Scouts," I whispered into the radio.
Ray's voice came through. "On my mark…"
The tension in the air thickened. My grip on the rifle tightened.
"Now."
A suppressed shot cracked through the air. One scout collapsed instantly. The others reacted too late—Ray's team took them down before they could even turn back.
We watched for a moment, making sure they were all dead. Then, silence.
"They won't be reporting back," Ray said.
I exhaled slowly. It was a small victory, but we all knew what it meant.
The real fight was coming.
---
The first move has been made. Do you think the Black Ravagers will retaliate immediately, or will they change tactics? Let me know your thoughts!