𝗖𝗟𝗔𝗜𝗥 𝗗𝗘 𝗟𝗨𝗡𝗘. Demetrius Desmond

08

"I MIGHT KILL SOMEONE!" Leon exclaimed in excitement as we drove through Westails. "Don't do that please." Twilight sweat dropped and i sighed at the both of them.

The envelope from Leon had been an invitation to Lysiera, a WISE tradition that set aside one day each year to celebrate everything we'd achieved in the shadows.

This was our time to put down the mission reports, detach from our covers and enjoy the life we so often had to put on hold.

The directive was clear, no missions and any agents outside Westalis were required to return to base for a brief but well-earned respite.

Arriving at headquarters with Twilight and Agent Night—now more often referred to as Loid and Leon—I felt an unusual sense of anticipation bubbling beneath the usual stoic exterior.

Stepping inside, we were met with an atmosphere entirely unfamiliar to the base.

Normally quiet halls buzzed with conversation and the faces of agents I'd only seen in passing were lit with genuine smiles, laughter breaking out in small bursts as people caught up and reconnected.

The headquarters had undergone a surprising transformation. The walls, usually bare and utilitarian were adorned with streamers and tasteful decorations that softened the space.

It was almost surreal to see such a vibrant life filling a place known for its cold efficiency.

As we made our way deeper into the room, I heard someone announce "Everyone, Twilight, [code name] and Agent Night have arrived!" A ripple of acknowledgment spread through the crowd and I could feel several sets of eyes on me.

Some of the younger agents seemed especially curious, casting glances that were equal parts fascination and surprise.

Being the adopted daughter of the director had always drawn whispers and silent questions among the newer spies, most agents knew me only by reputation but nights like these always gave me a chance to meet new people

Then from behind me a familiar voice rang out, clear and full of affection. "Look at my baby, already grown and so accomplished!"

I turned around, my face breaking into a smile as I recognized my father, the director of WISE, standing there with a few of his closest advisors and high-ranking agents.

He looked less like the stern leader of the organization and more like a proud parent, a soft warmth in his usually sharp gaze.

"Papa!" I exclaimed, barely able to contain my excitement as I threw my arms around him, hugging him tightly.

It was rare that we had moments like this, where he could just be my father and I could just be his daughter, without the weight of our roles pressing down on us.

He hugged me back, chuckling softly. "You've done so well." he murmured, just for me to hear. Pulling back, he examined my face, pride evident in his eyes.

"You especially have done huge missions, I've heard." He said.

"You know." Leon said, stepping up beside us with a smirk, "I'm starting to think you get more credit around here than the rest of us combined."

Father laughed, clapping Leon on the shoulder. "What can I say? She's earned every bit of it. You both have."

Just then, a group of agents nearby called out to my father, beckoning him over with raised glasses.

He gave me a quick squeeze on the shoulder before heading their way, leaving me with Leon.

I watched him go, feeling a swell of pride that I rarely allowed myself to acknowledge.