"Who goes there?! Reveal yourself!"
The voice cut through the forest cleanly, sharp and controlled.
Ronan didn't move immediately.
He doubted he could get away.
So he stepped forward instead, just enough for his presence to be seen through the gaps in the trees.
"Class B," he said. "Resource group."
Four figures emerged fully into view.
They spread slightly as they stepped out, maintaining distance without making a sound. Each one positioned themselves so no single angle was left exposed. Weapons were already drawn.
"Class B?" One of them said, more to their own group than to Ronan himself.
Had they recognized him?
Ronan answered anyway. "Correct. We are the resource group in charge of gathering materials to make base."
The leader nodded.
"Alone?"
"No, I have allies nearby."
It wasn't a complete lie. He was sure they were around, but he had wandered far enough to where they wouldn't be able to help if he got attacked.
