A Meeting Before the Crisis

The Neo Marines Base was as quiet as ever. Clouds layered the night sky, and faint moonlight spilled through the gaps onto the base's defensive walls.

An ironclad security network covered every corner. Soldiers moved along their patrol routes with steady steps and sharp eyes, not daring to let their guard down.

Yet beneath these tight defenses, several figures silently approached the patrolling soldiers.

They moved swiftly and soundlessly, blending into their surroundings like shadows.

The lead agent crouched slightly behind a large rock, his gaze piercing the darkness as he fixed on the patrol's route ahead.

He gave a quiet order:

"Team one, get ready."

At their leader's command, two lean, quick-witted agents slipped silently out of hiding and approached their targets.

Their steps were light, their bodies almost skimming the ground. Their eyes remained focused, and the specialized weapons in their hands promised cold, precise strikes.

The soldiers were patrolling in orderly formation, completely unaware of the movement around them.

Suddenly, the agent on the left darted forward and clamped a hand over one soldier's mouth.

Terror instantly filled the soldier's eyes, but he managed only a faint, muffled sound before thin hemp rope bound his hands and feet and he was dragged into the shadows.

Another soldier failed to notice his companion's disappearance and continued his vigilant patrol, his steps somewhat heavy.

At that moment, the other agent quietly approached him from the right.

He swiftly raised the small crossbow in his hand, aimed almost instantly, and fired a sleep-inducing bolt.

The bolt sank lightly into the soldier's neck. Before he could even shout a warning, he collapsed to the ground, unconscious.

Throughout it all, even the air seemed frozen. The silence was terrifying.

Meanwhile, a faint glint crossed the lead agent's eyes. He followed close behind,