Bonds Beyond Blood

The starry night filtered through the tall windows of the Crescent Moon Agency, casting a soft blue light across Victoria's office.

Zara sat at the desk, rifling through a stack of files, with glasses perched on the tip of her nose. She glanced over at Victoria, who sat behind the desk, sipping her tea.

"I've gone through the new applications," Zara began, her voice a little uncertain. "There are some solid candidates here. Fresh talent, a little rough around the edges, but with potential. I think with time, we can make great warriors out of them."

Victoria didn't respond immediately. She placed her cup down gently and gazed out the window, her eyes narrowing slightly. After a moment, she spoke.

"Zara, do you think we should raise the bar a little?"

Zara blinked, caught off guard.

"Raise the bar? I mean, these candidates are already strong, and we need fresh blood, don't we?"