The atmosphere inside the temporary headquarters had changed. It was no longer simply tense. It was heavy.
No one spoke as Bahamut's group returned from the western district. Not long after, Rakia and Gabi arrived through the eastern entrance, followed by Sel and Apollonia from the north. The last to arrive were Ren and the Black Fang Prodigy, both looking far more serious than they had that morning.
Prince Victor Gandhal stood silently at the center of the meeting room.
The long oak table before him was already covered with reports, maps, witness statements, and newly drawn circles marking the three fresh disappearances.
Three kidnappings in three different districts almost at the same time, and not a single witness could remember seeing the kidnappers. Not one person remembered hearing screams. It was as though the victims had simply... ceased to exist.
Victor slowly looked around the room.
"Report."
Bahamut spoke first.
