Monica stood motionless before the massive strategy table set up in the war room of Asgard's central headquarters. A map of the continent covered nearly the entire surface, dotted with small metal pieces representing strongholds, railway lines, allied cities, supply depots, and military outposts. New red markers had been placed over various regions in the last few hours, indicating locations where similar anomalies had been recorded.
Gathered around the table were Monica, Samira, Cassandra, Daniela, Frieren, Xenovia, Scarlet, Rogue, Kali, Beatrice, and some of Asgard's top military commanders.
The room was silent.
A far cry from the usual atmosphere.
No one was cracking jokes.
No one was arguing.
Because, for the first time in a long while, everyone realized they were facing a problem of unknown magnitude.
Monica rested both hands on the table as her eyes slowly scanned the reports that had piled up overnight.
She took a deep breath.
