The room fell silent for a moment as everyone processed the revised timeline.
"That makes more sense than trying to sleep here," Alistair nodded, pragmatically. "We can rest during the journey and arrive fresh for the talks."
Thomas grunted his agreement. "Better than lying awake staring at the ceiling. Let's get moving."
Maya glanced at Ethan, who finally looked up from the bookshelf. His expression was inscrutable, a mask of calm that didn't reach his eyes. "I'll get our things," he said quietly, before leaving the room.
Within the hour, the delegation was assembled in the courtyard. A convoy of three heavy, armored SUVs stood idling, their exhaust pluming in the cold night air. Security personnel moved with quiet efficiency, conducting final checks. The atmosphere was charged, a blend of grim purpose and simmering anxiety.
