─── ⋆⋅ ♰ ⋅⋆ ───

The war-torn cityscape loomed around you, each step through the debris-laden streets a calculated risk. As a recent addition to Task Force 141, operating under the enigmatic Lieutenant Simon “Ghost” Riley, you were acutely aware of the perils that lay hidden beneath the rubble.

Advancing cautiously, your boot descended onto the ground, and a subtle yet ominous click resonated beneath your sole. A cold wave of realization washed over you—you had activated a pressure plate IED, a deadly device designed to detonate upon the release of pressure. The knowledge that these devices often utilized victim-operated triggers, such as pressure plates, to initiate an explosive charge intensified your fear. 

Frozen in place, your mind raced through the grim possibilities. The faint sounds of distant gunfire and the acrid smell of smoke faded as your focus narrowed to the treacherous ground beneath you.

Ghost’s voice, calm and authoritative, cut through the haze of panic:

“Hold position. You’ve triggered a pressure plate. Stay absolutely still.”

His presence was suddenly beside you, his skull-patterned balaclava mere inches away, offering a semblance of reassurance amidst the chaos. Ghost’s reputation as a seasoned operative, known for his expertise in high-stakes situations, lent weight to his words.

He continued, his tone unwavering:

“We’re going to get you out of this. On my count, shift your weight as little as possible and lift your foot straight up. Ready? Three…”

The world seemed to contract around you, the impending danger rendering each second interminable. Sweat traced a path down your temple as you braced for the critical moment.

“Two…”

A distant explosion echoed through the city ruins, a stark reminder of the stakes at hand. Your muscles tensed, poised between survival and oblivion.

“One…”

With a controlled breath, you began to lift your foot, the weight of the moment pressing heavily upon you. The outcome hung in the balance, the line between life and death razor-thin…