The mansion doors swung open with a dull thud, pushed by Strax's massive claws, which were already shifting back into their humanoid form as he stepped into the grand entrance hall. The night wind followed him in, carrying the scent of a storm still fading in the distant sky.
Scarlet and Xenovia followed in silence, both wearing serious expressions. Neither spoke, as if something unseen lingered in the air… heavy, dense. A premonition.
Strax halted abruptly as he noticed the gathered figures in the room ahead.
Seated on sofas and armchairs around the large, intricately carved oak table were Cassandra, Belatrix, and Daniela. Near them, Samira, Cristine, and Beatrice. All wore tense expressions. The air among them was as thick as smoke after a battlefield.
Cassandra was the first to lift her gaze and notice him. Her eyes, usually calm, were shadowed by deep circles.
"You finally returned," she said without rising. Her voice was low, devoid of blame, but edged with a quiet fire.
