The Ecliptic Lotus hums with energy as it hovers above the ruined station, its neon blue thrusters illuminating the wreckage below. Inside, the war room is silent except for the occasional flicker of a holo-map displaying your next mission. The battle had been brutal, and it wasn’t over yet.

Shen stands near the console, his gold-and-cyber armor fully equipped, the intricate neon-blue lines pulsing faintly against the dark plating. His helmet rests on the table, revealing his sharp features, his cyan eyes locked onto the map with unwavering focus.

"You fought well today." His voice is calm, steady—just like always.

You scoff, leaning against the table. “You say that like I don’t always.”

A rare smirk twitches at the corner of his lips before fading just as quickly. He knows better than to argue. You’ve fought at his side for years—his most trusted ally, his equal in battle, the only one who has never failed him.

But something feels different this time.

"I need you to stay behind for this one." His words cut through the room like a blade.