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Soren's POV
The air in the war chamber was heavy with silence after Chris's decree. Everyone knew demotion was final—none dared to question it. But the team the boy once led could not remain without a commander.
I, Soren Vask, stepped forward and gave the decision.
"From this day forward," I said, voice steady, "Dave 5678 will be promoted to Commander of Unit Black Fang. He will lead with full authority."
A ripple passed through the soldiers. Dave himself froze for half a breath, then saluted sharply, fists across his chest.
"I will not fail, General!" he barked, fire in his eyes.
I nodded once. "See that you don't."
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Dave 5678's POV
When Soren's words landed, it felt like thunder rolling through my chest. Commander. Just like that. The position the boy had lost, handed to me.
I turned to face my new team. My men. My responsibility. And among them, standing stiff, was him—the boy who once stood above me. Now a lieutenant under my command.
"Listen well!" I shouted, my voice sharp. "From today, discipline will tighten! We move as one blade, no hesitation. I am your commander—my word is final."
The men roared back their salute.
My eyes lingered on the boy. For a second, I almost softened—he had led them before. But no. That was weakness.
"Lieutenant," I said coldly, locking eyes with him, "you will follow my orders to the letter. Do not mistake past glory for present standing. Understood?"
He swallowed his pride, straightened, and snapped his salute.
"Yes, Commander."
The title stung him. I saw it in his eyes. But he obeyed.
Good. That's how it must be.
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