Agents of the Victim

It was a quiet day. There were almost no missions today, all the information according to protocols had been distributed, and the base had been tidied up. It was quiet, everyone was busy with their own affairs.

Some were resting, some were testing dubious devices, and some were finishing up their work. The agents were currently in their evening training session. Smith was supervising the rest, his closest confidantes and best mercenaries: Ballista, Hazard, and Primal.

Ballista loved water training. It was a large pool, 10 meters deep, with surfaces scattered around it: mattresses, boats, toys. You were then attacked by three waterproof robots: they weren't afraid of water. The goal of this training section was to hone your balance skills and learn to fight on unstable surfaces (like the Sagging Mattresses and Rings).

Khazard wasn't particularly fond of robots—he mostly fought with undead pillars: it was an area with tall pillars that rotated automatically. The pillars held weapons: blades, knives, whips, and more. The goal: dodge them and avoid being cut to pieces.

Primal loved a tough challenge: a large robot with virtually no weak spots. It was a small ring, and the goal was simply to defeat the robot.

Smith controlled everyone. He was the boss, only exercising when he was alone, and didn't like to train in front of others.

Smith: Primal, be careful - the robot might not turn sharply, but people certainly can!... Hazard, at least think when you dodge... Ballistas are boats, not Paul, you could fall through - don't jump too high!..

Smith walked between the large areas of the hall, watching them more closely.

After training, everyone approached the boss, Smith. Smith and the other Mercenaries went to the lounge to take a break. After all, the Winter Holidays were coming soon—might as well relax. The base was decorated in a pre-New Year's mood... And yet, it was a very quiet evening.