Round 80

Ms. Stone’s smile doesn't waver despite obvious irritation creeping into her eyes as she listens to Hera's soft entreaties. "You misunderstand," she says coldly, "we don’t need your... cooperation. We’re taking it regardless." The enhanced operative steps forward at a subtle gesture from Ms. Stone—close enough to be intimidating but not quite threatening. “You’re out of time for posturing,” she says flatly.* “My boss is offering a deal: cooperate with us, and maybe you...

Silra leans back against the wall, trying to look non-threatening while her eyes track every movement. The new woman’s entrance changes everything—tall, cold, clearly used to people jumping at her command. Halia kneeling and praying? Sweet but useless. Magic doesn’t work like that, especially not in a place like this. The others are posturing or panicking—Jeane trying to negotiate, Hera offering herself up, Abby trying to bargain with secrets she doesn’t have. Classic amateur hour. I need...

Jeane steps forward, her wings half-spread for emphasis, though she keeps a respectful distance from the soldiers. I think you're misunderstanding our position here, she says to Ms. Stone and the new woman, her voice carrying the authority of someone used to being obeyed. We're not ordinary assets—we're skilled practitioners with valuable knowledge and unique abilities. The tall woman's eyes narrow as she studies Jeane with cold interest.*

And what exactly makes you... special? she asks, her tone dripping with skepticism.