The quick drop from the fast-rope was just that, over and done with just like that; just how it should be done, unlike training when you'd wait for the new recruits to gently edge over to the damn thing. She had been stuck with the new guys for what seemed like ages, making sure they'd pass their exercises so that they can be stuffed into the nearest platoon. So it came as such a relief when Ryan had caught her for an operation. Back with the captain, just like it should be.

After the last pair of boots made a gentle "thud" on the jungle floor, they'd vanished into the thick bush, heading off on a Westley bearing. It was hot and humid, the conditions running her back to training, when she'd been little more than a willing recruit and still chasing after the front runners. SAS exorcises were always the best, and as serious as they were, each was something to enjoy, learning the tips and tricks as you went. It was all being put into practice now, and with her P90 pulled up into her shoulder and eyes up, operation Bloodhound was underway.

After reaching the clearing, Alice too could see the thick channel of smoke sailing above the canopy. It was too big for a small, practical cooking fire, suggesting that it was to at least be a large patrol or outpost. If they timed it right with enough Intel from the scout, a clean silent sweep on the entire area would be possible. Then again, all it'd take is for someone to trip a wire, a target to let out a shout or get a round off and everything would get very nasty very quickly. They'd reached their first obstacle, but it would be an impact on the rest of the Op if anything went wrong. This was going to have to be flawless, or messy.

It was never both...

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