The clearing stood in stunned silence as the night wind stirred the pine needles and whistled between the barrels of drawn rifles. The woman named Valeria stepped forward, her boots crunching softly against the gravel of the compound path. Her coat fluttered behind her like the wings of some dark omen. Her expression was calm, surgical—eyes like steel, calculating everything and giving nothing away.Derick stepped to the forefront, his weapon unwavering. “Last chance. Identify your purpose or turn around. This isn’t a diplomatic mission.”Valeria’s lip curved ever so slightly. “Relax, Commander. If I wanted war, your perimeter would already be ash. I came to speak. Preferably before the next decision you make costs you your command.”Danielle emerged from the shadows of the main building, her steps brisk, gaze locked onto Valeria. She stood beside Derick, not out of allegiance—but necessity.“Valeria,” Danielle said, her voice low, laced with bitter recognition. “I thought you were a