Sarah nodded, her earlier exhaustion replaced by cautious interest. "Alright. Let's go check it out. If it looks too dangerous, we run."
Sein was already moving, her crimson gauntlets flaring to life. "Then stop talking and follow me."
Andrey held up a hand. "Wait. Sein, you're on point, but don't charge ahead. We don't know what's down there. Stay close enough that we can support you."
Sein clicked her tongue but didn't argue. "Fine. Just keep up."
They left the van behind and walked deeper into the industrial zone, past rusted machinery and crumbling walls. The air grew heavier with each step—thicker, colder. Andrey's Ki senses prickled, warning him of something wrong.
Lisa stayed close to Andrey, her wand clutched in both hands. "This place feels... bad."
Sarah nodded, her own transformation flickering at the edges of her fingers. "Like the air is watching us."
Sein, at the front, said nothing. But her shoulders were tense, her gauntlets glowing brighter.
