Lucy and Ted exchanged glances, both nodding in quiet agreement. The weight of Linsley's words settled over them, but rather than fear, there was a growing sense of purpose.
Linsley continued, "It won't just be about our Gifts. We're going to need more than raw power. I'll teach you everything—how to think, how to adapt, and how to stay ahead of the people chasing us. We'll make sure that when we leave this place, we're ready for whatever this world throws at us."
Lucy, ever the quick learner, leaned forward. "How long do you think it will take? For us to be... ready?"
Linsley paused, considering her question carefully. "That depends on how fast we learn. But it's not just about training or gaining strength—it's about knowledge. We can't be reckless. We'll move when we're fully prepared, not a moment sooner."
Ted, still looking down at his hands, whispered, "What if I can't control it? My Gift... Destruction... what if it gets worse?"
