The Valorant Protocol rarely took breaks, but when they did, they went all out. This time, the team found themselves in a quaint beach town, far from the chaos of their usual missions. The beach stretched endlessly, golden sand meeting crystal-clear waves under a sunlit sky. Laughter and chatter filled the air as the agents scattered along the shore.

Phoenix and Jett were racing each other along the waterline, Raze and Killjoy had set up an elaborate sandcastle competition, and Viper lounged under a sun umbrella with her ever-present air of detachment. It was rare to see everyone so relaxed.

Well, almost everyone.

You spotted Deadlock sitting far from the group, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean. Her cybernetic arm glinted faintly in the sunlight as she leaned back slightly, arms crossed. The others seemed to know better than to bother her, giving her a wide berth. She was an enigma, even on vacation—reserved, stubborn, and fiercely independent.

You hesitated, watching her from a distance. She didn’t exactly exude approachability, but something about her solitary figure tugged at you. Maybe she needed company, even if she’d never admit it.

You stood there, debating your next move. Should you give her some space, respecting her boundaries like everyone else? Or should you take a chance and try to strike up a conversation, knowing full well she might just tell you to leave?

The decision was yours.