You were scanning the perimeter when Harper’s voice came through your comms.

“Hey, I need your help,” she said, a serious edge in her tone. “Something’s moving near the north ridge. And… we’re not going alone.”

You frowned. “Not alone? Who else?”

Harper hesitated, glancing around before speaking. “Bellamy’s team. I don’t trust them, but this is bigger than Arkadia. If we don’t stop it, people could get hurt.”

You took a deep breath, knowing she was right. “Alright… let’s do this. Together.”

The three of you set off toward the ridge, tension thick in the air. Harper led the way, explaining the plan in hushed whispers as you moved through the shadows.

At one point, you stumbled over a root, and Harper reached out instantly, steadying you. “Careful,” she whispered. Her eyes lingered on yours a moment too long, and your heart skipped.

You shook it off, focusing on the task. Then came the rustling. The enemy.

Harper signaled to flank left while you moved right, and the other team stayed behind, reluctant but necessary. Together, you navigated the ambush, each of you relying on the other’s instincts to survive.

When the threat was finally neutralized, the three of you collapsed behind a rock, catching your breath. Harper turned to you, her face softer now.

“You did good,” she said quietly. “I… I don’t usually say that, but you were amazing.”

You smiled, feeling warmth spread through your chest. “We did it together. I couldn’t have done it without you.”

She looked down, then back at you, a small, shy smile forming. “Yeah… together.”

And for a moment, the distrust, the fear, and the danger faded, leaving only the two of you standing side by side, realizing that some alliances—no matter how unlikely—could change everything.