“Adrian, I believe you’ve met her already. This is Anna, our receptionist,” the Captain said, gesturing toward the desk by the entrance. The young woman looked up from where she was fiddling with a quill. Her brown hair, loosely tied, brushed her shoulders. The soft green Loen-styled dress she wore was trimmed with lace at the sleeves and collar, a touch of elegance that softened her otherwise casual posture. Adrian smiled politely. “Nice to meet you.” Anna’s lips curved. “Hi. I’m Anna. Nice to meet you too.” Her voice carried a light cheerfulness, though her eyes gave off the weariness of someone who had seen far too many recruits pass by. “Later, you’ll have time to look around and meet the others,” the Captain said, already turning toward the corridor. “For now, follow me.” Adrian trailed after him. The hallway was narrow, lined with lanterns whose flames flickered against old stone walls. Their footsteps echoed faintly. The Captain pushed open an unlatched door. Inside was a

The first encounter came faster than Adrian expected. A low, guttural growl slithered through the alley to their right, chilling the night air. Kael’s massive hand immediately went to the hilt of his sword, muscles tensing like coiled steel. From the shadows, two gaunt, hunched beasts emerged. Thin and hairless, their pale skin stretched taut over sharp bones, eyes glowing a sickly green. They moved with unnatural speed, jaws snapping at the air like razors in motion.“Adrian!” Kael barked, voice cutting through the tension. “Position yourself between them and Rhea. Don’t hesitate.”Adrenaline surged, hot and electric. Adrian’s grip tightened around the hilt of his dagger, heart hammering. Time seemed to slow; he noticed subtle details, a faint shimmer around the creatures, a distortion in the air that marked them as something beyond natural.“Move!” Darius’ voice rang out, commanding. He swung his sword with precision, steel meeting claw in a shower of sparks. Adrian reacted instinc