Lyra's POV
My heart hammered against my ribs as the convoy approached. Even at this distance, the emblem gleamed like a threat on the lead vehicle's hood. That pristine white lily against midnight black metal.
Azure of the Valley pack.
Only one pack moved with such calculated arrogance. Such flawless military precision. The vehicles rolled forward in perfect formation, each positioned with surgical accuracy. This wasn't diplomacy. This was intimidation wrapped in formality.
"Sweet goddess." The words escaped before I could stop them.
The lead car stopped directly at our main entrance.
Then the second.
Then the third.
Six vehicles total. The doors opened with choreographed synchronization that made my skin crawl.
Armed guards emerged first. Real soldiers, not ceremonial decoration. Their weapons looked functional, deadly. They spread out like they expected resistance, securing the area with ruthless efficiency.
