Veil of the forsaken.

"Dr. Solas."

The next day, the announcement room buzzed with hushed conversations, the tension thick as the hundreds of corps members gathered. Lady sat quietly with Arlos and Sei-do beside her. She idly twisted a strand of her raspberry-red hair around her finger, her ice-blue eyes scanning the room. It was rare for Matthew to call such a meeting, and the atmosphere reflected the weight of his decision.

The crowd hushed as Matthew strode to the front, his presence commanding the room. Holen stood off to the side, his sharp gaze surveying the corps, ready to back Matthew's words.

"Alright, everyone," Matthew began, his voice calm but firm. "As you all know, we're preparing for a critical mission. This isn't just any operation—it's one that requires precision, strength, and trust." His gaze swept over the crowd, resting briefly on familiar faces. "After careful consideration, the team for this mission has been decided. I'll be leading it, and joining me will be Sei-do, Dorothea, and Mai-Lee."

Lady felt a pang of disappointment but quickly schooled her expression. She had anticipated staying behind but couldn't help the slight sting of being left out.

Matthew continued, "While we're away, Holen will be in charge of the base, overseeing all operations." He glanced toward Holen, who gave a curt nod of acknowledgment.

Matthew's eyes landed on Lady, softening just slightly. "Lady, you'll be in charge of the medical bay. This is a vital role, one I trust you to handle with the utmost care and precision."

Lady straightened in her seat, a mixture of pride and apprehension washing over her. "Understood," she said firmly.

"You won't be alone in this," Matthew added. "Dr. Solas will be working with you. He's the most experienced medic we have, and as many of you know, he worked alongside Samantha." His voice softened briefly, the mention of their late friend adding an unspoken weight to the room. "Dr. Solas will guide you when needed, but the decisions will ultimately rest with you."

A ripple of murmurs ran through the crowd. Lady glanced at Dr. Solas, who sat quietly among the medics. His silver hair framed a kind, lined face, and his warm smile reached his soft gray eyes as he inclined his head toward her.

"I'll do my best," Lady replied, her voice steady despite the nervous flutter in her chest.

"You always do," Matthew said simply, his trust evident. "Everyone, prepare for your roles. We leave at dawn."

As the room began to clear, Dr. Solas approached Lady, his gait slow but steady. "Well, Miss Lady," he said, his tone warm and gentle, "looks like we'll be partners for a little while."

Lady managed a smile. "Thank you for your help, Dr. Solas. I know this is a big responsibility."

The older man chuckled softly. "Responsibility is something you've been handling quite well, from what I hear. Don't worry—we'll manage just fine together. Your mother would be proud."

Lady's smile faltered slightly at the mention of her mother but quickly recovered. "I'll make sure I don't let anyone down."

"You won't," Dr. Solas said, his voice calm and certain. "Now, let's start organizing the bay. There's always something to prepare."

As the two began discussing the medical bay's needs, Lady felt a sense of determination settle over her. This mission might keep her from the field, but she would ensure the medical team was ready for anything. For her team, for Matthew, and for the legacy of those who had come before her.

The announcement room emptied slowly, murmurs of conversations trailing into the hallways. Lady remained seated for a moment, processing Matthew's words. Being left in charge of the medical bay wasn't just a task—it was a test.