Chapter 28: Team Match Preparations

The persistent buzz of the facility hung in the air as Axel's team remained in their quarters, the tension of the day still hanging over them like a specter. The announcement of team matches had transformed the mood completely—it was no ordinary brawl. It was a test like no other they had encountered.

Atlas stood in the doorway, his arms folded across his chest as his keen eyes kept watch over the group. "If we don't have a plan in place today, we're walking in blind tomorrow. That's not going to happen."

Ava leaned back against her bunk, spinning one of her pointed claws idly. "Relax, Atlas. We've been training together all week."

"Don't mean we can just do it by the seat of our pants," Kaid stated, standing. "Team combats aren't everything about fighting. They're about working together. If we don't watch each other's backsides, we're doomed."

Lila nodded, her rifle laid out beside her. "The Commander's listening. If we botch this one, we'll never hear the end of it."

Axel sat quietly, his sharp eyes focused on the floor as the group spoke. Finally, he looked up, his voice calm but firm. "We'll stick to our strengths."

The team turned to him, waiting for more. Axel continued, his tone steady. "Atlas, you're the best at staying grounded. You'll hold the center and make sure no one breaks through."

Atlas nodded, his expression serious. "Understood."

"Lila," Axel said, turning to her. "You've got the best range. Pick your targets and keep us covered."

"I can do that," Lila replied, her voice quiet but determined.

"Ava," Axel continued, his gaze locking onto her. "You're fast. Keep them off balance, and don't let them regroup. Hit hard and pull back."

Ava smirked, flexing her claws. "Sounds like fun."

"And you, Kaid," Axel said, his voice steady. "You'll focus on defense. Stay close and watch for openings. If anyone needs backup, you're there."

Kaid nodded, cracking his knuckles. "Got it."

Finally, Axel's gaze shifted to Eli. "And you'll—"

"Let me guess," Eli interrupted, raising an eyebrow. "Try not to screw it up?"

Axel's lips twitched slightly, though his tone remained serious. "You'll handle distractions. Keep their attention off Lila and Ava."

"Fine, fine," Eli said, shrugging. "But no promises."

Axel went on, his tone growing resolute. "We've practiced this. Stick together, watch each other's backs, and keep our eyes on the prize. We'll win if we stick together. That's all."

The group looked among themselves, the gravity of Axel's words hitting them. They gradually transformed their fear into resolve.

What do you think is going to happen to the match?" Lila asked after a moment. "Is it going to be just fighting?"

"Hard to say," Atlas said, his voice reflective. "The Commander's not one for standard tests. He'll give us something we've never seen before."

"Don't matter," Axel said resolutely. "We'll adjust. We don't need to know what's going to happen in order to prepare."

The team nodded in assent, their determination solidifying.

Ava stretched, her smile back. "Well, however it goes down, let's give them something to talk about."

"Yeah," Kaid said with a small smirk. "Let's make sure they'll remember us."

Axel leaned back a little, his piercing eyes scanning his team. They weren't recruits anymore—they were warriors. And tomorrow, they'd show it.