The day of the grand celebration had arrived. The men had spent the morning preparing, ensuring their attire was pristine and their roles were clear. The outhouse, usually filled with the scent of damp wood and sweat, now held an air of quiet anticipation. Steam from freshly drawn water curled into the air as each man cleaned up, shaving away days of rough edges, transforming from hardened soldiers into refined gentlemen.
Daniel adjusted the cuffs of his tailored black jacket, its fine embroidery subtle but elegant. The fabric was smoother than what he was used to, too soft, too polished, but it was necessary. They had to blend in. This was not a battlefield in the traditional sense, but it was a war nonetheless.
Standing before them, Daniel surveyed his men, noting their sharp appearanc
