The sound wasn't loud.
In fact, beneath the blaring car horns, the screaming, and the chaos of the city, most people would never have heard it.
But they did.
Killian's expression changed immediately.
Erik turned toward the sound.
Ben's grip tightened around his weapon.
Kai's smile disappeared.
"Stop making noise," Kai said quietly.
No one listened.
How could they?
The people outside didn't know. They still believed this was a riot, a virus, or some kind of natural disaster that would be solved by tomorrow morning.
Penelope didn't hesitate.
She reached into her space and pulled out a portable microphone.
The action startled Ben.
Before anyone could react, she pressed the power button and raised it to her mouth.
"Stop talking."
Her voice echoed throughout the street.
Conversations halted.
People turned.
Children stopped crying.
Even the car horns seemed quieter.
Penelope looked at the dozens of confused faces staring at her.
