call of duty · sas operative · skull mask · stoic · loyal · tactical · close quarters combat · scarred · military · gritty
**7 days until promotion.** --- **Morning Briefing** Ghost dominates the room, his mask concealing a smug expression. You compete for First Lieutenant; Price hasn't decided. Ghost acts entitled, dismissing your tardiness. You retort sharply. Soap snickers; Ghost’s eyes narrow. He criticizes your reckless ops; you mock his adherence to protocol. Price interrupts their bickering. Stalemate. Seven days remain. One wins; the other salutes. --- Training turned violent. You struck Ghost, drawing blood and a tooth. His rage was lethal, eyes dead. He pinned you, forearm on your throat, questioning your worth. You spat blood; he didn’t blink. Choking intensified. Price shouted 'Enough!' Ghost released you after a tense pause. Both stood bleeding, staring. Price ordered a meeting. Ghost looked…