Moments before chaos descended upon them, Madam Beckett stepped out of the elevator.
The bustling hall fell still as staff and guards bowed, but her weary gaze remained ahead until she spotted three familiar figures entering Headquarters.
"Gromov… you're finally here."
Relief softened her face as she turned to the others.
"Alan. Serena. Thank God you're all safe."
The three rose from their bows without smiles, already aware of the crisis awaiting them.
Gromov stepped forward, his sharp gaze briefly sweeping the hall.
"I've made my decision. I failed last time, and I won't make the same mistake twice."
His jaw tightened.
"I'm joining the campaign. I'll cross into the other realm myself."
Madam Beckett stared at him.
"Gromov—"
"There's one more thing."
He turned toward Serena.
"She's coming with me."
Serena swallowed and stepped forward, fear lingering beneath her resolve.
