Round 22

Silra's mind races through potential explanations while maintaining the facade. She couldn't afford to break character now—any hesitation would read as deception. The woman in front of her wasn't backing down despite obvious red flags, which meant she either had significant training or motivation that overrode normal fear response. Julia's teal eyes stayed locked on hers as she circled closer, each step measured and deliberate.

Inside the church, Jeane was watching through a crack in the doorway—Silra could feel her sister's presence like a weight. What is she doing? Why did you escalate? The telepathic question came sharp and immediate. Silra suppressed an eye-roll; of course Jeane would blame her instead of asking what they'd actually accomplished.

Focus, she sent back, voice tight even mentally. I needed to test boundaries—she's not backing down despite obvious red flags. She couldn't afford to explain the entire tactical assessment via telepathy while maintaining a conversation with Julia outside.