Lyra wasn't the kind of person to take a hit lying down. Sure, she might stumble for a moment, but you could bet she'd get back up swinging—and always aiming to hit harder.
After cooling off, Cohen reminded himself why he was truly angry. It wasn't just the injustice Lyra had faced; it was the filth he'd uncovered within Legion Glory. That corruption burned him to his core.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly.
Being the son of an admiral wasn't worth much in moments like these. Orson held a higher rank, more power, and enough leverage to make even Cohen's father tread carefully. The harsh truth only sharpened Cohen's determination.
Lyra didn't blame him, nor did she mock him. Instead, she simply said, "Good luck, Captain Whyte. Build a clean, new Alliance."
"I will," Cohen replied, his voice steady.
His eyes burned with a fiery resolve that startled her for a moment. Lyra gave him a faint, almost teasing smile and waved him off. "I'm leaving."
