Solo Ranger

Chapter 17: The final

The news of the takedown spread like wildfire across departments. The names involved Verin Solnix, Rylos Entan, Teylor Vance shocked everyone. These were men known more for public grace than secret crimes.

At the temporary camp near the edge of the Core Forest, a chopper landed, sending dust spiraling through the air. From it stepped Chief Officer Roy a man older than most, with a calm face and a long memory.

He wasn’t just another superior. He was the man who had once quietly assigned Daine to shadow Mira not to spy, but to look out for her. He’d seen something in both of them long before either realized their own strength. Or feelings.

Roy approached with a faint smile, nodding at both officers.

Roy:

“You two caused a storm in the cleanest way possible. Impressive. No unnecessary violence. No mess. Just truth, precision, and nerve.”

Daine and Mira stood at attention, quiet, hands behind their backs.

Roy (softening):

“I picked you both not just for your record, but because... you're alike. Fighters. The kind who don’t ask for anything, don’t expect help, but give everything anyway. That kind of loyalty rare.”

He paused, letting that land.

Roy said :

“This core forest is vulnerable. We’ve cleared out the rot, but it’ll need eyes like yours to stay clean. There’s a permanent post open here. Both of you are top choices.”

But hey, there are other opportunities too. Transfers are on the table. You want metro surveillance, I can push it through. I’ll vouch for you. Choose where you want to go.”

He let out a breath, as if that was the end. Then looked back at them one more time.

Roy (teasing gently):

“Although... I get the feeling you two aren’t going to ask for what you really want. And I’ve seen how you look out for each other behind all that professionalism.”

Both Mira and Daine froze slightly, the tips of their ears reddening.

Roy (with a chuckle):

“Anyway everyone’s pulling out. Only you two have a choice to make. Three days. Let me know.”

He patted Daine on the shoulder, then Mira.

Roy (softer, almost fatherly):

“Whatever you choose... just make sure it’s for the right reasons. You both deserve more than duty.”

He walked off, calling out orders to the rest. Within hours, the temporary unit was gone. Officers boarded back, trucks moved out. Just a few duty officers remained. And Mira and Daine.