Part 2: The Guild's Call
That evening, the atmosphere in the apartment-like dorm shifted. Laughter echoed from the kitchen as Xion and Kate bickered over the soup ingredients. Zion sat cross-legged in the living room, sorting files quietly. Ellee had retreated to her room but left the door open. It was the first time she'd done that.
She stared at the file on her desk. A sealed envelope lay on top, bearing the guild's official wax stamp.
Mission Request: Confidential
Ellee broke the seal with a small blade and unfolded the letter.
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To Ellee (S001),
You are hereby requested to assemble your current team and prepare for a high-priority investigation. Reports suggest unusual energy readings and failed communications in Sector D.
Further information will be disclosed upon acceptance.
This mission is not mandatory considering your recovery status.
Awaiting your decision.
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"They sent you something, didn't they?" Zion's voice made her jump. He stood at the doorway.
She nodded. "The guild wants us to investigate something in Sector D. Energy anomalies. Communication failure."
He stepped closer. "And you're thinking of accepting, even in your condition."
She didn't deny it. "They need me."
"We need you too," he said quietly. "But alive."
Ellee's fingers twitched toward her lips again but stopped. "I'll talk to the others. I won't decide alone."
Later that night, the five of them gathered in the common room.
"You sure you want to go already?" Maya asked.
"I won't lie. I'm not fully healed. But I can't sit back while others risk everything," Ellee replied.
Xion looked at her thoughtfully. "Then we go together. No arguments."
"Agreed," Zion added. "No more disappearing acts."
Ellee finally smiled—just a little. For once, it didn't feel like the weight was only on her shoulders.
As the night grew deeper, and the lights dimmed, she found herself standing at her window. The city lights shimmered, and for the first time in years, she felt something unfamiliar but warm.
Maybe... just maybe, she wasn't alone anymore.
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