The chapter opens on the vast training grounds, where echoes of clashing steel and bursts of energy ripple through the air. The elite unit, hardened by months of rigorous training, engages in relentless mock battles. Sweat drips from their brows, but the fire in their eyes is unmistakable.

  Darius wipes the sweat from his forehead, turning to Leon. "This... this is bringing my old self back. I haven't enjoyed a fight like this in years."

  Leon, gripping his blade tighter, responds, "It's been too long since we fought with real purpose."

  Suddenly, a hush falls across the grounds. Every gaze locks on two figures in the center—Kael and Selene. Their auras clash like storms, raw energy crackling between them. The air thickens with tension as the duel begins, each strike faster than the eye can follow.

  As their blades collide, Selene smirks, "It's been a while since I've faced someone who could push me this hard."

  Kael meets her gaze, his voice steady, "You're not holding back either. No wonder my father trusted you."

  Their duel intensifies until, with a final clash, their daggers shatter. Kael’s cloak falls from his shoulders, revealing a body carved by discipline and battle. Scars trace across his torso, each telling a story of sacrifice and survival.

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  Rose, watching from the sidelines, feels her cheeks flush. "I must protect him," she thinks, "This clueless idiot has no idea how easily some witch like Selene could seduce him."

  The duel ends with mutual respect, and the elite members erupt, shouting, "Welcome back, Commander!"

  That night, as the team rests, Rose shares a quiet moment with Selene. "This mission... it's only known to the top two elders, right?"

  Selene nods, her expression serious. "Only us."

  "Promise me," Rose whispers, "Make sure Kael survives this mission."

  Selene smirks, lying back on her bed. "I'll try, but this is his fight. Still, if that 1% chance of death comes... I'll do everything in my power to stop it."

  Three months pass in grueling training. Their bodies sharpen, their skills honed to perfection. Then, one night, a shadowy figure delivers a message to Kael. "Sir, the border infiltration method has been prepared. The officials are bribed. We’ve secured four forged IDs."

  Kael’s eyes narrow. "We’re five, not four. Fix it."

  Julie steps forward. "The fifth identity is problematic. One of the targets we planned to impersonate died unexpectedly. We need time."

  Two months later, Selene selects three elite members to join the mission—each handpicked for their loyalty and skill. The final day arrives.

  Standing before his team, Kael’s voice cuts through the air like a blade. "Tonight, vengeance begins. Monarch, your karma has come full circle. I will be your doom."

  The chapter closes with their silhouettes disappearing into the darkness, ready to ignite a revolution.