Evening had settled over the training grounds of the 104th Cadet Corps. Candles flickered in iron sconces along the stone walls, casting long shadows that stretched and shrank as cadets moved between tables.

The mood was subdued.

Tomorrow's expedition briefing hung in the air like a held breath. Everyone knew the rumors. The biggest mission yet. Deep into Titan territory. The kind of operation that didn't guarantee return tickets.

A hand landed on the table near Y/n's bowl, fingers drumming impatiently.

The absence of the squad leader at dinner had been pointed enough.