Although Harlan “Toad” Shadow held the rank of Colonel and served as a deputy commander, after a moment of pure shock, he quickly plastered a fawning smile on his face when addressing Marcus “Mace” Reed.
Mace Reed was a true prodigy. Always arrogant and backed by a mentor like General Ray Garrison, he had the freedom to fully display his brilliance. He despised Harlan Shadow. Harlan was competent enough, but he was far too snobbish and pretentious. Even when they crossed paths at the Base or had to coordinate on official business, Reed always maintained a polite but frosty distance.
To be honest, Reed had never once offered Harlan a genuine smile.
This time, however, Reed offered a slight nod and a grin toward Harlan. Although most of that warmth was clearly reserved for Flick, it was e
