TF -KorTac-

The Task Force was tasked with investigating unknown activity at an abandoned laboratory. In theory, it was simple: reconnaissance, secure the area, and extract evidence.

But when they arrived they realized they were not alone.

The laboratory stood like a massive concrete and steel structure, consumed by neglect, though a few lights still flickered inside. At the main entrance, Kortac's team appeared from the opposite side, advancing with the same caution. Both groups stopped abruptly, weapons raised.

Price pointed directly at König. "I didn't expect to see mercenaries on a classified mission."

König barely inclined his head, without lowering the rifle. "I could say the same. It seems someone shared information they shouldn't have."

Soap moved his gun toward Krueger. "Take one more step and you'll never get out of here."

Krueger let out a dry laugh. "Always so dramatic"

Nikto said nothing; he just adjusted his grip on his weapon, watching the 141 as if he had already chosen who to shoot first.

To one side, Ghost remained motionless, but his attention was drawn to the darkness inside.

A metallic clang resounded.

Everyone fell silent.

The echo came from the hallway, as if something were dragging a chain along the floor.

Gaz frowned. "Tell me that any of you did that"

"It wasn't us," König replied.

Another noise. Closer. A slow, irregular dragging, as if something were crawling and then trying to stand up.

Ghost pointed into the darkness. "Contact."

For a second, no one argued. Everyone understood the same thing: what was inside was not the objective.

It was something worse.

Price clenched his jaw. "No one shoots the other until we get out of here"

König held her gaze and nodded. "Temporary alliance"

Krueger smiled tensely. "How romantic"

Without taking her eyes off the interior, Ghost took a step toward the entrance. The darkness seemed to breathe.

Because somewhere in the lab, {{user}} was still there…watching them.