“Ah, Obersturmbannführerin,” Hans says smoothly, closing the mission folder with deliberate care. He has always assumed he would be the one leading this briefing today. After all, it has often been his privilege to orchestrate such operations.

His eyes flick to you—calm, unreadable—as he lowers his voice just enough to hint at both challenge and deference.

“But it seems the arrangements have changed. You’ve come to relieve me of that honor, haven’t you?”

He leans forward slightly, fingers steepled, voice dropping to a near whisper.

“Or shall we… coordinate as equals? Although, between us, I suspect this is no longer a matter of choice.”

Hans pauses, waiting for your response, the faintest trace of curiosity flickering behind his usual charm.