The tension in the Vanguard base was palpable. Word of the surface dwellers had reached the underground government Council, and their response was swift.
Reinforcements had already been dispatched, accompanied by strict orders to establish dominance over the surface—under the guise of offering protection.
Tobi stood with his squad in the command room as Matilda addressed the incoming transmission. The Council's emblem flashed on the screen before a high-ranking official appeared. His voice was measured, but his words carried an unmistakable undertone of control.
"Commander Matilda," the official began, "we have reviewed your recent reports and commend your initiative. The Council recognizes the value of your discoveries. However, we must stress the importance of ensuring that the surface remains under centralized governance."