PREPARATIONS FOR THE DIVE
The team moved quickly, each member falling into their roles. Vlada set up the dream-link equipment, her fingers flying over the console. Arya and Rivan reviewed the dossier on Layla, mapping out potential threats.
Ayan stood with Nitya by the dream capsule, the tension between them palpable.
"You don't have to go in," Nitya said quietly. "We have new investigators for a reason."
"This is bigger than any one of us," Ayan replied. "And if the Collective is behind this, they'll expect me. I can't let them think we're scared."
She sighed, her expression softening. "Just promise me you'll be careful."
"I always am," he said with a faint smile. "Besides, I have you watching my back."
ENTERING LAYLA'S DREAM
