The press conference was held in the association's courtyard, which had been hastily converted into a media center. Reporters packed the area, cameras flashing as they jostled for the best positions. The murmur of voices filled the air - speculation, rumors, questions waiting to be unleashed.
Cipher sat at the center of the panel table, flanked by Victoria on his left and Selene on his right. He kept his expression neutral, though internally he was already bracing himself for what was coming.
The questions began almost immediately.
"Is it true that the association suffered heavy casualties during the recent attack?"
Victoria leaned forward, her voice smooth and steady, betraying none of her internal thoughts. "The association successfully repelled a coordinated assault by hostile forces. While we did sustain some losses, our defenses held strong, and we've already implemented enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents."
