Milo, Kai, and Nessa stood before Selene, their hearts pounding with anticipation and dread.
After hearing about Milo's bizarre experience with Kriz, Kai and Nessa had jumped at the chance to join the 20-year program, expecting an equally quirky interview.
Reality, however, had other plans.
Selene's piercing gaze dissected each of them, her expression as unyielding as the city's walls. "Are you certain you want to proceed with the second interview?" Her voice carried a weight that made their spirits sink.
The trio nodded, though a shiver crawled up Milo's spine. Selene's tone set off alarm bells in his mind.
"Very well," Selene said, rising from her seat. "Follow me."
She led them through unfamiliar corridors, finally arriving at a vast hall where other recruits had already gathered. Milo did a quick headcount: about 20 people in total.