The leader's head turns sharply toward Azure, his mask betraying no emotion, but the weight of his gaze feels piercing. The room grows still, and for a brief moment, Azure wonders if he's overstepped. Then the leader chuckles, a low, ominous sound that seems to echo off the sanctuary walls.
"You ask good questions, newcomer," the leader says, his tone both amused and cautious. "But you are new. Perhaps too new to understand the intricacies of such a mission."
One of the lieutenants, the tall, broad-shouldered one, steps forward, his voice gruff and laden with warning. "The leader shares information when he deems it necessary. Your job is to follow orders, not pry into matters beyond your rank."
Azure inclines his head slightly, a gesture of submission. "Of course. I only meant to understand the significance, so I can prepare myself better. I assumed the Rion Clan must have done something extraordinary to warrant such a decisive action."