The room remained quiet as Logan stared at the crystal resting on the table. The fragment inside continued its slow, rhythmic folding, collapsing inward and expanding outward in a pattern that defied easy explanation. He felt the pull of it even from where he stood, a subtle vibration that resonated somewhere deep in his chest.
Linda watched him closely. Her silver eyes reflected the fading orange light from the window. "You sense more than most do," she said. "That alone confirms my choice."
Logan shifted his weight. He crossed his arms over his chest. "What exactly do you expect from me? I am still a student. This sounds like something for senior hunters."
"You have already proven yourself beyond typical students." Linda set the crystal down again. The motion was precise. "Your performance in the academy entrance events reached certain ears. Including mine. The association needs discretion here. Official teams draw attention. A small group of capable students does not."
