Three months into the task force consulting work, I finally speak with all eleven families connected to the original pilot program, though only seven surviving relatives remain traceable across the scattered years since Vantage first tested their scoring system.
We gather them together for the first time at Reyes's request, a formal meeting meant to coordinate testimony while also, unofficially, giving these strangers connected through shared tragedy the chance to finally meet each other directly.
The conference room feels different than any space we've occupied throughout this entire fight, filled with people who understand exactly what happened without requiring lengthy explanation.
"My mother was Elena Arden," I say, introducing myself to the group. "She died during surgery that Vant
