~Azaria~
The night was thick with anticipation as we sat huddled in the van, parked just beyond the reach of the facility's security lights. The low hum of the engine was the only sound, a steady heartbeat against the silence. Alaric sat next to me in the backseat, his gaze fixed on the distant silhouette of the Coalition's stronghold. Bella, Tasha, Gabriel, Hunter, and Kale were tense but focused, each preparing mentally for the mission ahead.
"Are you ready?" Alaric asked softly, turning his eyes to me. Concern and confidence battled in his expression.
I nodded, taking a deep breath. "As ready as I'll ever be."
"Remember, we'll keep watch over you," Bella assured me from the front seat, her hand resting lightly on the hilt of her dagger.
"Just make sure no one disturbs me," I replied, offering a faint smile.
