Novel1Chapter 414 Meanwhile, across town- Elian Ashcroft and ShadowFox sat across from each other in a stylish café, steaming mugs of black coffee in hand, the aroma of roasted beans swirling through the air.
"So, Mr. Ashcroft, do you think they'll pull off the mission perfectly this time?" ShadowFox asked with a sly grin, stirring his coffee absentmindedly.
Elian's lips curled into a cold, almost amused smirk. They hadn't told him a thing about the mission-just asked if he thought their team could handle it. It was a test, probably fishing for intel about Miranda Lancaster's current status.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtElian arched an eyebrow. "Isn't that your department's business? You'd know better than I would, wouldn't you?" ShadowFox just shrugged, noncommittal.
"Well, what's your guess, Mr. Ashcroft? Think anyone in that group's got what it takes to be a leader?" That actually piqued Elian's interest. He looked up, eyes sharp.
ShadowFox chuckled, continuing, "These folks, ever since we recruited them, mostly go solo. Even on group assignments, real teamwork is rare. Honestly, we don't usually dare send them on the big jobs." He leaned in, lowering his voice. "They're all too stubborn, too independent. Everyone's got their own way. So we just toss them the mission and let them handle it however they want-as long as it gets done." Elian snorted. "Sounds like a real ragtag bunch." ShadowFox winced.
Elian added, "Except for her." That made ShadowFox's expression sour even more. If anyone else had said that, he'd have called it picking a fight. These weren't just anybody-they were the department's top-dollar talent, each of them costing a small fortune to keep on the payroll.
But Elian Ashcroft? The commander of Fort Titan, the guy who could strong-arm the most unruly factions in the entire military? Hard to argue with that.
Elian took a slow sip of coffee, gaze unreadable. "Sometimes, the best don't need a team. Having to drag others along just slows you down." He let a small, knowing smile slip. "I'm talking about Miranda, of course." ShadowFox nearly choked on his drink. Was Ashcroft really that biased? Was he letting his head get turned by a pretty face? Sure, Miranda was talented, but it's not like she was invincible. Finishing a mission and saving lives those are two very different things Elian set his cup down. "Your mission's got something to do with Crow's Eye, doesn't it?" The way he said it—calm and casual-made ShadowFox's eyes widen just a little. Their operations were always strictly confidential. Even today, inviting Elian over for a "friendly observation," they'd kept the actual mission details sealed tight.
Elian continued, voice smooth as ever. "If you're dealing with an organized crsyndicate, especially one with possible enhanced assets, you'd better plan your moves carefully. Otherwise, your so-called elite team? They're just cannon fodder." Ket ShadowFox finally let his guard down, voice respectful now. "To be honest, we invited you here today hoping for your insight, Mr. Ashcroft. From your perspective-how do we unify this lot? We've tried forcing them to work as a team, but every time, something goes sideways. At this point, we've all but given up. Elian's answer was cool, almost detached. "Things go sideways because none of them has the presence or the tactical mind to command the rest. Trusting someone else? Not their style. They only trust themselves." vef He leaned forward, locking eyes with ShadowFox. If you want them to function like a single unit, a well-oiled weapon, then you need someone who can wield that weapon-someone who commands loyalty, respect, and even fear. Only then will they fall in line."
ShadowFox listened, realization dawning. That's why Elian's own crew always fell into place. At Fort always fell in Titan, there was never any trouble-because Elian was the one holding the reins. "Find a king among them," ShadowFox muttered. "That's... one hell of a tall order." Elian just smiled, checked his watch, and stood, unfolding his long legs with practiced ease.
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"It's been an honor being invited to RapidForce today. If you ever want to visit Fort Titan, the invitation's open, Commander." He offered a polite nod, thanked ShadowFox, and strode toward the exit, covering the distance in just a few easy steps.
ShadowFox immediately signaled to an aide. "Well? Go see Mr. Ashcroft off!" Outside, Miranda was already waiting. She'd noticed Elian's car still parked
outside, but the man himself nowhere in sight. She lingered for a moment, glancing up at the ent, om Pha brownstone apartment building in front of her, eyes narrowing thoughtfully. These people, she thought, are definitely not your average players.
But... they're still just a scattered bunch of lone wolves.
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