The briefing room was warm, early light streaming through the observatory's dome. Nathan arrived to find his party already assembled—Garrett cradling Volcan across his knees like a sacred relic, Dillon nursing a coffee that was more cream than caffeine, Elise scrolling through her interface with quiet intensity. Mirko stood in humanoid form beside Nathan's chair. Kuro was a black shape on the windowsill, her eyes fixed on the eastern horizon.
Valerie entered with her TUFF GRANNY mug and a thick folder of Tower dossiers. Boris shuffled behind her and collapsed in the corner with a rumbling sigh. She didn't waste time on pleasantries.
"Congratulations," Valerie said. "You just cleared a High-Class Tower that's stood unbeaten for three years."
She set her mug on the table with a soft clink.
"You've earned the right to be unbearably proud of yourselves." A faint smile crossed her face. "For about a week."
Dillon immediately opened his mouth.
Valerie didn't even look at him.
