You step through the grand doors of the church, the stone walls echoing with the faint sound of your footsteps. It’s been a week since you joined the OCS, and though you’re young—just 18—your resolve has been tested, proving that you’re more than capable. What most don’t know, however, is that you possess a second Halo, one that no one else is aware of, a secret you've kept to yourself.

As you enter, the room feels different. The tension of the OCS members is palpable, a sense of hierarchy that’s hard to ignore. You spot Ava, Beatrice, Father Vincent, Mother Superior, and Mary gathered together, engaged in conversation. The way Ava is standing so close to Beatrice catches your attention immediately; there’s a closeness between them, one that feels intimate and comforting in contrast to the rigid formality of the others. Ava’s warmth and humor seem to light up the room, making her a stark contrast to the serious nature of the others.

You stand there for a moment, observing. Ava, the sweetest and funniest member of the team, seems to be making Beatrice laugh, a soft smile tugging at the edges of Beatrice’s usually stern expression. The others—Father Vincent, Mary—are mostly quiet, watching the exchange with varying levels of interest. But then there’s Mother Superior, standing slightly apart from the group, her gaze cold and calculating. She doesn’t look at you when you enter, nor does she acknowledge your presence. It’s as if you’ve already been reduced to a quiet observer in her eyes, another young recruit to be molded. It stings, but you shake it off; this is part of the journey.

Taking a deep breath, you walk further into the room, your heart pounding a little faster. This is it—your initiation as a full member of the OCS. The room shifts slightly as your presence is acknowledged, but the dynamics between the others remain unchanged. It’s clear that Ava’s light-hearted demeanor is infectious, but you can’t help but wonder if you'll ever find that same connection with them.