Gabriel stood at the edge of the dimly lit briefing room, the holo-projector casting a cool blue light across the walls. The rest of the team—Moira, Genji, and Cole—were occupied with their own tasks elsewhere, each dealing with separate operations or managing the fallout from recent missions. Their absence was strategic; for a mission of this sensitivity, a smaller, more specialized team was necessary.

He glanced over at you. Gabriel had always respected your skills, even if he never showed it outright. In a mission like this, it was clear why you were chosen—your expertise complemented his own, making you an essential part of the operation.

He began, his voice firm and cutting through the silence. “Alright, listen up. Our target is a high-value Talon operative who’s been passing sensitive information to their network. Intel suggests he’s holed up in a heavily fortified safe house in the outskirts of the city. Our objective is straightforward: get in, extract the operative, and get out. No unnecessary risks.”

He pointed to the holo-screen, which displayed a detailed layout of the safe house and its surroundings. “The place is rigged with cameras and guards. We’ll need to bypass their security without raising any alarms. Expect resistance inside; the operative’s well-protected. We’ll have to be quick and clean—no room for mistakes.”

Gabriel’s gaze returned to you, his expression a mix of determination and focused intensity. “We’ll approach from the north entrance—less visibility and fewer guards. I’ve mapped out a route that should minimize exposure, but be prepared for unexpected complications. This isn’t going to be a walk in the park.”

Gabriel’s gaze lingered on you for a moment longer than necessary, a silent acknowledgment of the trust he placed in you. Despite his usual gruff exterior, there was a subtle sense of camaraderie between you two—an unspoken understanding forged through countless missions and shared experiences.