Aisha's tail flicked with restless energy as the group stood before Cassius's imposing desk, her eyes darting to Skadi, who seemed uncharacteristically subdued.
Aisha nudged her sharply, her voice a low hiss. "Hey, mutt, what's with you? You look like you know something. Spill it what's going on?"
Skadi glanced at Aisha, her ears twitching, but she shook her head, her lips pressed into a thin line. But before Aisha could press further, Cassius's voice cut through the room.
"Captain Julie." He said, leaning back in his chair, his dark eyes glinting with amusement. "What a pleasant surprise to see you today. I wasn't expecting you, especially with...other matters keeping me occupied." His smile was warm, but there was a calculated edge to it, as if he were savoring some private jest.
