The Elven Princess

Adam Hills jumped out of the helicopter and walked quickly toward the General's office. His boots made a loud noise on the hot asphalt. The helicopter's roar faded as he approached the building.

Adam entered the office, saluted the General and said, "Reporting as ordered, sir. We achieved an amazing victory over the separatist group in Blackrium desert."

General Jameson returned the salute. "At ease, Captain Hills. Congratulations on a job well done."

Adam relaxed, thinking about the successful mission. "Thank you, sir. Our information was correct. We stopped the separatist group's leaders and avoided civilian casualties. We lost a few good men, but they all died as heroes. We raided their warehouses and got our hands on all their ammunitions and future plans."

The General nodded, reading Adam's report. "Your strategy was excellent. You've earned a commendation and a promotion to Major, starting immediately."

Adam felt proud, but he noticed the General's aide, Colonel Reed, looked uneasy.

"Sir, I.." Adam was about to continue, but he noticed Colonel Reed raise his hand.

"Major Hills," Colonel Reed interrupted, his voice tense, "your new assignment will require some changes. You'll receive briefing papers soon."

Adam's instincts warned him something was off, but he focused on the praise. This promotion secured his future.

As Adam left the office, fellow officers congratulated him. But amidst the praise, he sensed whispers, hidden glances and resentment. Of course it's just human nature, you can't expect to be a saint to everyone regardless of how much good you contribute.

Adam shook hands with colleagues congratulating him.

"Great job, Major!" Captain Lewis said. He was one of the very few people Adam could comfortably talk to.

Adam smiled humbly. "Thanks, just doing my job. By the way, heard you got a new kid."

"Yeah, a bouncing baby boy. Lewis Jr." Captain Lewis said with a wide smile on his face.

"Yo dude! Can't believe you leaving us behind!"

Two men dressed in military uniforms approached him, Lieutenant Tom Bradley and Sergeant Alex Ryan, approached. They wore big grins. These were his friends. They grew up together and joined the army together.. they were like brothers to him.

"Hey, congrats, Adam!" Tom exclaimed. "We heard the news! You're a Major now!"

Alex nodded. "Time to celebrate! You deserve it."

Adam hesitated. "Guys, I appreciate it, but I'm not really up for-"

Tom cut in. "Come on, Adam! One drink won't hurt. We'll catch up."

Alex added. "Yeah, just a few hours. Meet us at McGillicuddy's Bar at 7 pm."

Adam wanted to refuse, but his friends' enthusiasm won him over.

"Alright, 7 pm," Adam agreed.

Tom grinned. "See you tonight, Major!"

As Adam watched them leave, he felt uneasy. Why were they so eager?

Hours Later...

Adam prepared for the night, wearing civilian clothes for the first time in months. He checked his watch: 6:45 pm.

Time to meet Tom and Alex.

Grabbing his wallet, Adam headed out into the fading sunlight toward McGillicuddy's Bar.

Adam pushed open the door and stepped into McGillicuddy's Bar. The sounds of laughter, music and clinking glasses enveloped him. He scanned the room, spotting Tom and Alex in a cozy corner.

As he approached, Adam noticed a young woman sitting with them. Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back, and her bright smile lit up the space.

Adam's curiosity piqued, he walked over and took a seat.

"Hey, Adam!" Tom exclaimed. "Glad you made it!"

Alex nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we've got someone special to introduce."