"Are they all here?" Director Arlo's voice echoed through the entrance hall, his words hanging in the air like a challenge. Aria's gaze slightly shifted towards the sound, her eyes narrowing as a figure emerged from a door marked "Authorized Personnel Only".
Director Arlo, Ryan's uncle, stepped out, his presence commanding attention. His eyes scanned the room, surveying the assembled group with an air of superiority. Aria's instincts prickled, sensing a sinister intent behind his gaze.
Flanking Director Arlo were the same two soldiers who had accompanied him earlier. Their faces remained impassive, their eyes fixed on the crowd with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion. Aria noticed the subtle tension in their stances, their hands resting on their holstered guns, fingers drumming a slow rhythm.
