The first thing Lilith noticed when she stepped into the training hall was how still it was. The usual buzz of laughter, the clang of weapons, and the metallic scent of sharpened steel were replaced by something heavier: anticipation.
She stood at the center of the circular room, dossier in hand, scanning the small group gathered before her. Harry leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed, that same lopsided grin tugging at his mouth, though his eyes flicked with concern when he caught hers. Beside him, Francoise was adjusting the straps of her tactical vest, her copper hair tied tight in a braid. Noah, the youngest but quickest among them, stood silent, fidgeting with the trigger of his silver rifle.
Behind them, two upper-year agents waited, their faces unreadable but posture shar
