Waiting in the Shadows

By the time they returned to their transport, the weight of the Vanguard's fall bore down on the team like an anchor. The flames from the ruined base flickered in the distance, casting ominous shadows as if mocking their failure. The only sounds were the soft hum of the transport's systems and the faint crackle of still-burning debris.

Tobi leaned against the cold wall of the vehicle, his thoughts clouded with frustration and guilt. Captain Erwin's sacrifice, Commander Lyora's battered state, the shadowed figure that had orchestrated the cultists' attack. It all churned in his mind.

Hannah sat across from him, her hands clasped tightly together. "Do you think we'll get orders soon?" she asked softly.

Matilda, who had been standing near the cockpit, turned her gaze toward them. "We have to wait. The council needs time to assess the situation."