Echoes of a Deeper Threat

(Recap)

The morning after the gala, the campus buzzed with rumors about what had transpired. Though the official story from the administration downplayed the events as a minor security breach, those in the know—Rio, Erica, and their close-knit group—understood the gravity of what had nearly occurred. The Echoes of Shadows had been relentless, and this latest attempt to sabotage the gala was a clear message: they weren’t going to back down easily.

(Rio, speaking to the group in their usual meeting spot) "Last night was close—too close. We managed to stop them, but we can’t assume this is the last we’ll hear from the Echoes. If anything, they’re going to escalate."

(Ryuu, leaning back in his chair) "Agreed. They’ve made it clear they’re willing to go to any lengths to achieve their goals. We need to figure out their next move before they strike again."