The teleportation circle's glow faded into the cool dusk as the two emerged onto the windswept encampment. It was late night there, the purple moon covering everything in a shade of magenta. A sparse arrangement of canvas tents and supply wagons lay scattered among the shifting bushes, while distant peaks glinted under the last light of day. The soft murmur of the jungle mingled with the clinking of gear.

 Taldris broke the silence with a hearty laugh, "Welcome to our temporary home, Ilyas!"

 Ilyas tugged at the collar of his shirt, glancing around with a mix of wariness and anticipation. "Feels real out here. Harder than any cityscape I've seen."

 "Hardy, yet inspired," Taldris replied, his eyes twinkling. "Now, let's get you properly introduced."

 Stepping forward, Taldris gestured toward a lean, sharp-featured young man emerging from behind a supply tent. "I want you to meet Jehan. Jehan, this is Ilyas Altaria."

 Jehan extended a hand, eyes warming with interest. "I've heard you’re our ace in the hole, isn’t that right kinslayer?"

 “Kinslayer huh?” he pursed his lips, assuming it referred to the vampire he killed. He shook Jehan's hand. "I hope what you’ve heard aren’t exaggerations."

 A moment later, a sturdy figure with steady eyes stepped into their midst. Taldris continued, "And this is Jabar, the eye of our operations."

Jabar's voice was calm but firm. He tilted his head up with respect. "Welcome, your entry bolsters our numbers. We rely on clear judgment as much as a strong swing. I trust you'll prove your mettle."

Ilyas's tone was casual but confident. "Thanks, I appreciate it."

From the tent's shadow, a gentle voice filtered out. A woman approached with a subtle nod and a slight smile, her gaze assessing the new member. "So you’re the merc? I'm Heroona. I patch wounds and do all of that other field medic stuff. It's good to have you here, Ilyas."

A playful spark lit Ilyas's eyes. "Trust me, you'll have your hands full. I tend to break as much as I eat."

Heroona chuckled softly and rolled her eyes. "I'll be ready for every one of those fractures."

Taldris gathered the small circle close, voice radiating quiet authority. "Each of you is essential. Ilyas, your strength and perseverance are exactly what we need as the storm gathers at our doorstep."

Ilyas nodded, feeling the gravity of his new role settle upon him. "When do we move?"

"At dawn," Taldris replied without hesitation, his tone leaving no room for delay. "Warm up a bit. We’ll chart our course and get to action soon." He pulled out a scroll, unfolding it on the ground. “We’ll start in Umbratara as it’s closest to our encampment. There’s an ancient vampire village that's slightly isolated on the northern border. The kingdom of Darkthorn. Ilyas, I need you to investigate it. We already planned out routes for covering the main populated areas, so it’s just that area left alone. Despite it being uninhabited, vampires frequent it, and I’m in a positive mindset to think The squad still live, if they do, that’d be their best bet at keeping low. Do what you must to find the targets. They won’t be hard to find. Four of my men, all wearing the same red surcoats. Humans obviously.” He gave Ilyas a medallion. “If you come across them, show them this, it’ll help serve your allegiance in their eyes. Repeat “Vita, Endorica” to them as you do. The old chant of our lovely country hasn’t been known here, so I'm sure that will also help.” 

 “I understand.” 

 “The rest of us will follow the laid out plan.” 

Jehan clapped Ilyas on the back and said with a wry smile, "Better learn our silent methods soon. Easier to creep around those things." Ilyas gave him a smirk back with a raised brow.

Jabar's eyes were focused on him. "Unity and trust, that's our code. And you, merc, will be a part of that during this mission."

Heroona added, "We'll stand together. In the quiet moments and the clash of battle. It'll be something to remember."

Ilyas looked over each face, feeling an unexpected surge of camaraderie and resolve swell within him. "I won't let you down," he said simply, his voice carrying the promise of determination. The fire emphasising his pink eyes, blending into hues of passion.

Taldris placed a firm hand on Ilyas's shoulder. "Tonight, share in our company. Come dawn, our united strength will face whatever shadow dares approach."

As the cool Jungle air filled their lungs, the small squad fell into a relaxed hush amid the camp, each lost in thoughts of tomorrow's imminent trials. Together, they savored a rare moment of peace, confident that their unity would guide them through the challenges ahead.

The fire's amber glow danced over their faces as the group gathered around the crackling embers. It was still dark, but hints of lavender light whispered across the horizon. Ilyas shifted on his cot and grinned.

"I swear the sun's taking its sweet time," he joked, tapping on his chest.

Jehan leaned forward, his eyes bright. "Maybe it's busy admiring you. Shall I tell you a bedtime story? Might help you sleep."

Heroona chimed in with a teasing smile. "You? Bedtime stories? The only thing you're good at telling us is your never-ending skill with a bow."

Taldris' lips quirked as he prodded a log with a slender stick. "Now, now. Let's not waste too much energy on this.” He shifted his gaze to the slowly brightening sky. "Look at that. The chill of night gives way to cool promise." He mused, his tone softening as the horizon blushed with the first hints of dawn, removing the shadows off his face.

Heroona wrapped her arms around herself and laughed. “And this morning's promising a long one if I don't get enough coffee. Who left the kettle at base?"

Jehan snorted. "Maybe you're too busy defending the camp with your bandages to remember the essentials."

They laughed freely, the sound mingling with the murmurs of the shifting wind. Ilyas's eyes wandered to the gently rising orb of light, barely peeking through the dark quilt of stars. 

"Enough chatter," Taldris declared, his tone slicing through the gentle murmur of the fire. "The time isn't far now. Everyone, pack up and get ready to move out."

Jehan shifted, pulling his cloak tighter. "I’m already tired."

Taldris laughed, his eyes reflecting both authority and a hint of mischief. "Prepare yourselves—today, we strike."

Heroona nodded, already rolling her gear as she spoke softly, "I'll check my medical supplies and set up a quick pack."

Jabar tightened his belt, ever the silent sentinel, simply added, "I’ll get to securing our perimeter."

The camp stirred with quick, steady energy as each member readied themselves. Ilyas, seated a few paces from the circle, listened to them with a mixture of anticipation and introspection. The silver of his necklace was cold against his skin; memories of family and duty weighing in his mind.

"Ilyas," Taldris called, his voice low and measured as he walked over. "You seem quiet. All set?"

Ilyas met his gaze, his jaw tightening ever so slightly. "I'm ready.”

Jehan piped in, half-teasing, half-concerned, "You're splitting up the vampire from us, I can’t help but be concerned, wouldn’t he be better with us, rather than searching his own area? I’m sure this place feels like home."

Ilyas offered a genuine smile, though his tone remained firm, "I’m technically a dhampir. Only my mom was a vampire. You’ll all be fine. I'll meet you at the rendezvous point once I'm done with my side."

Heroona patted Ilyas's shoulder gently. "We'll miss you on the march, but do what you must. And bring our squad back."

Taldris nodded, adding quietly, "Your duty is twofold. I expect you back before we reach the outskirts."

"I'll be back," Ilyas assured, voice firm despite an undercurrent of resolve. "I’ll make sure to find them."

A brief silence fell over the group as the rising sun cast long shadows over the camp. Taldris clapped his hands once sharply. "Then it's settled. Everyone, let's move. Ilyas, take the left path and catch up to us later. Your task is clear."

Jehan and Jabar echo, "Got it!" and "Understood," their tones laced with duty.

Heroona whispers, "Be safe, Ilyas."

With one last nod from Taldris—firm and commanding—the group set off amid the rustling leaves and soft murmur of the awakening jungle. Ilyas looked towards his path, brows lowering as he took off. He’d have to be quicker than them. They’re a whole team. What a joke. He sighed to himself.