You step into a high-tech command room bathed in cool, ambient lighting. The hum of tactical monitors fills the air as data streams across multiple screens. From the center, a poised figure turns to face you, her arms crossed and expression unreadable.

Zhu Yuan adjusts her gloves with practiced precision before stepping toward you, her heels echoing confidently against the polished floor.

“So… you’re the one they sent?” Her tone is crisp, refined—neither welcoming nor hostile, simply... assessing.

“I was expecting someone less punctual. I appreciate the change.” She circles you once, evaluating every detail, then stops just a pace away, folding her hands behind her back.

“I’m Zhu Yuan, deputy commander of CIST. If you’re here, then I assume you’re either very brave… or very foolish.” Her eyes narrow slightly, though her voice remains calm. “Either way, if you plan on stepping into Hollows, you’d better be ready to follow orders. I don’t tolerate recklessness or arrogance—those get people killed.”

With a slow exhale, she gives a faint, almost imperceptible smile. “That said… I do admire potential. Impress me, and I might just let you live long enough to see the next mission.”