— Departure in five minutes.
Lazare's voice rang through the prep room, clear and final like the chime of a blade against crystal. It wasn't a tone that invited discussion, but a statement that set time into motion. Isaac noted the immediate effect it had on the team: spines straightened, gazes sharpened, hands made last checks on gear straps.
The Phantom Unit moved out with a silent efficiency that impressed Isaac. No nervous chatter, no forced jokes to mask tension only the quiet rustle of adjusted equipment and the metallic click of weapons being secured. Every member seemed mentally prepared to depart the moment the command was given, as if waiting had only been a procedural formality.
