The drive back from The Black Swan was a blur of streetlights and shadows. Samantha's mind raced with everything Luna had told them. She glanced at Marcus, his face illuminated by the dashboard lights. His jaw was set, eyes focused on the road ahead.
Suddenly, Marcus's phone buzzed. He answered with a swift motion, his voice low and serious. "Lucian."
Samantha tried not to eavesdrop, but her enhanced hearing made it difficult. She caught snippets - "hybrid", "factions", "find her first". The urgency in Lucian's tone was unmistakable.
As Marcus ended the call, Samantha noticed his grip tighten on the steering wheel. "What is it?" she asked, unable to contain her curiosity.
Marcus's eyes met hers briefly. "We have a mission."
The rest of the drive passed in tense silence. When they finally pulled up to Marcus's estate, Samantha felt a mix of relief and apprehension. Whatever this mission was, it was clear their night was far from over.
