The next morning, New Haven was alive with activity as preparations for the mountain expedition began in earnest. The events of the previous day still lingered in everyone's minds, but the town's resilience was evident in the way its people pushed forward. George had called a meeting with key members of the community to finalize the plans, ensuring every detail was accounted for.
The group gathered in the meeting room of the mansion, a map of the mountain spread across the table. George stood at the head, flanked by Raven, Lucy, Jackie, Akari, and Stephanie, as well as Dr. Erica Penworth, Dr. James Acker, and geologist Patricia Moreno. Marcy and Frank were also present, their roles as community leaders giving them a vested interest in the mission's outcome.
"We're venturing into unknown territory," George began, his tone steady but serious. "The shadow creature we encountered yesterday was just the beginning. We need to be prepared for anything."