7-Gearing Up

 Back at the equipment depot, the teams were issued their standard field gear: lightweight tactical vests, radios, GPS devices, medical kits, and essential survival tools. While the DPW ensured a balance between preparedness and mobility, this wasn’t a luxury expedition—they were expected to handle themselves.

For Adán and Ren, this was routine.

Adán slipped on his vest with practiced ease, checking the straps before grabbing his gear. He moved like someone who had done this a hundred times before—because he had.

Ren, equally unfazed, adjusted her utility belt before fastening her boots. This was her job. This was what she did.

The same couldn’t be said for the rest of the team.

Helena stared at the equipment in front of her, hesitating before reaching for the vest. A scientist by trade, she wasn’t used to wearing tactical gear. She had spent time in the field before, but always as an observer, not an active participant.

Sophia held up a compass and frowned. “We have GPS. Why do we need this?”

Franz, already fully equipped, answered without looking at her. “Because technology fails.”

Emma secured her backpack straps, methodical in her approach but undeniably out of her element. She was used to working with data, not trekking through the jungle.

Adán noticed Helena fumbling slightly with her vest straps and stepped over, adjusting them before she could protest.

“Gotta wear it right, or it’ll shift when you move,” he said casually.

Helena gave him a flat look but didn’t stop him. “Didn’t realize you were also a stylist.”

He smirked. “Field fashion is my passion.”

Ren snorted, finishing her gear check. “That’s a terrifying thought.”

Franz, ever efficient, addressed the team. “We should establish a marching order. Adán and I will take point. Ren, rear guard.” He looked at Emma, Helena, and Sophia. “Stay between us. Follow instructions.”

Sophia sighed. “I feel like I just got assigned babysitters.”

Adán grinned. “More like bodyguards.”

Emma gave a small nod, adjusting her vest. “Makes sense.”

Helena exhaled, glancing toward the exit. Soon, they would be stepping into unknown territory.

Deployment

Minutes later, the teams stood assembled near the transport vehicles, engines idling as DPW officials ran final checks. The jungle stretched beyond the facility, thick with the sounds of unseen creatures and the weight of untamed wilderness.

A final call echoed through the air.

“Teams, move out!”

Adán turned to his team, flashing an easy grin. “Alright, Team Four. Let’s see what we’re made of.”

And with that, they were off.

—