The Capture of Lord Lucas

As the sun began to rise, Vergil gathered Freya, Aeka, and his five adopted daughters in their private tent. The air was crisp, the quiet hum of the waking camp providing a stark contrast to the tension within the tent.

Vergil approached the mission board, where several photos of their targets were pinned. He took the photo of Lady Lina Castellanor and, with a stroke of red ink, crossed it out. Beneath the photo, he wrote the word "Rescued" in bold, precise lettering.

Aeka and Freya exchanged knowing glances, understanding the symbolism immediately. However, Mina, the oldest and still inexperienced of the group, tilted her head in confusion.

"Father," Mina asked hesitantly, "why did you cross out the photo? Does it mean something special?"