Bab 22: The Cost of Speed
The team regrouped in the jungle clearing, their bodies tense but their spirits high after the victory. The BIOs on their wrists emitted a soft chime, signaling a collective update.
Techie's eyes widened as he checked the new stats. "Guys… we've got 30,000 Credits as a team now."
Shadow leaned against a tree, catching her breath. "That's a lot more than I thought we'd have by now. What do we do with it?"
Captain crossed her arms, her expression serious. "We can't just hoard it. We're alive because of our upgrades. Reaction speed saved me last time—maybe we invest more in that."
Ace nodded thoughtfully. "Agreed. If we're faster, we'll have an edge in combat. Shadow and Techie should get it too."
Shadow raised an eyebrow. "Techie? No offense, but you're more the brain of this operation than the brawn."
Techie smirked. "Maybe, but faster reaction time means I can hack quicker. And if I have to shoot, I won't miss."
Captain made the call. "Alright. We'll buy three reaction drugs. That's 900 Credits total."
A Sudden Realization
As they prepared to head back to their cages to retrieve the upgrades, Ace paused, his BIO lighting up with a thought.
"Wait," he said, excitement building in his voice. "What if we don't have to go back? What if we can order the drugs here?"
Shadow frowned. "Here? You mean… on the battlefield?"
Ace nodded. "Yeah. It's just a marketplace system, right? There's no rule saying the items have to be delivered to the cages."
Captain tilted her head, considering the idea. "It's worth a shot. Techie?"
Techie immediately started tinkering with his BIO, navigating the shop interface. After a few moments, his face lit up. "He's right. I can order the drugs now and have them delivered by drone within minutes."
"Do it," Captain said firmly.
The Order
Within moments, Techie confirmed the transaction. The team watched as their credits ticked down from 30,000 to 29,100.
Shadow sighed. "That's a chunk of change, but it's worth it."
"Let's not waste any more," Ace said, his tone cautious. "In every game I played before… there was always something better later on. If we burn through our credits now, we might regret it when a game-changing weapon or upgrade shows up."
Captain nodded. "Smart thinking. We'll save the rest for now."
The Upgrade
Minutes later, sleek, black delivery drones descended from the canopy, each carrying a small metallic case. The cases opened with a soft hiss, revealing three glowing vials of the reaction drug.
Each team member took one, injecting the liquid into the ports embedded in their gear.
Ace clenched his fists, feeling a surge of energy course through his veins. His senses sharpened, and the world seemed to slow down slightly. Shadow and Techie exchanged glances, both visibly impressed by the immediate enhancement.
"This is… incredible," Techie said, flexing his fingers.
Captain gave a small nod. "It'll keep us alive. That's what matters."
The Growl in the Darkness
Just as they finished, a low, guttural growl echoed through the jungle, sending shivers down their spines.
Shadow spun around, her rifle raised. "What was that?"
Ace's heart sank. The sound came from the direction where Scarface and his team had fled.
"It's not a good sign," he said grimly.
Captain motioned for silence, her eyes scanning the shadows. "Stay alert. If it's what I think it is, Scarface's team might not be the only ones in trouble."
The growl grew louder, more guttural, shaking the leaves around them. Whatever was coming, it was massive—and it was hungry.
PERTIMBANGAN PENCIPTA 
Tenshimeo
Tenshimeo "This is my first time writing a novel, and it's been an exciting journey so far! I’d love to hear your thoughts—what you enjoy most about the story and what you think could be improved. Your feedback means a lot to me and will help me grow as a writer. Thank you for being part of this adventure!"
Status Power Mingguan
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