Round 10 Transcript

I scan the perimeter through the window's dusty glass, my fingers idly tracing the edges of various gadgets and weapons hidden beneath my cloak. The city lights in the distance are a constant reminder of how precarious our situation is—too close for comfort, too oblivious to the dark magic happening under their noses. Jeane begins her ritual, her voice echoing with an ancient power that sends shivers down my spine despite my best efforts to remain detached. Hera and Abby look on with wide-eyed wonder, their inexperience painfully obvious.

"Wait," I interrupt, my tone sharp enough to cut through the ritual's haze. "We need to address our exposure before we continue." I turn to Jeane, my expression serious despite the lingering arousal from watching her work earlier. "The city's proximity is a liability—one mistake could bring authorities sniffing around here faster than you can say 'sacred ceremony.'"

I pull out a small device—a modified smartphone with various tracking and surveillance apps already running—and hold it up for everyone to see. "I've been monitoring the area, and there's increased police activity near the perimeter. If we keep this up without proper security measures in place..."

My gaze shifts to Hera and Abby—new recruits who seem more interested in exploring their newfound powers than considering the consequences of their actions. "And speaking of security measures," I continue, my eyes narrowing as I address them directly, "we need to establish clear protocols for newcomers. No unapproved contact with outsiders, no careless use of magic in public spaces—these aren't just suggestions."

I move towards the door leading outside, my hand hovering over the handle. "Someone needs to maintain perimeter watch during this ceremony, and it shouldn't be left to chance." I look back at the group, particularly at Halie who seems more grounded than most here. "Unless someone has a better idea for keeping us all out of jail—or worse?"