Chapter 115

Aria Bennett listened to Agent Brooks' explanation and gained a clearer understanding of the Special Response Division's operations.

With an apologetic smile, she said, "I'm afraid someone has already extended an invitation for me to join the Special Response Division."

Brooks' pupils constricted. "What? Someone beat us to it?"

Cole Turner and Tobias Kane exchanged glances, both visibly surprised.

Aria nodded. "They offered me special terms—official status with complete autonomy, more of a partnership arrangement."

Brooks' breath hitched. "May I ask who made the offer?"

Only the Director had the authority to approve such conditions.

"Your Director," Aria replied frankly.

The teacup nearly slipped from Brooks' grip. "The Director personally recruited you?"

He'd never imagined the elusive Director would personally approach a newcomer.

"Have you seen his true appearance?" Brooks couldn't help pressing.

Aria arched an eyebrow. "You haven't?"

Brooks gave a wry smile. "The Director never reveals his face."

Aria understood—Damian Cross's identity remained a secret within the department.

"Then how could you be certain it was him?" Brooks still seemed doubtful.

Aria tapped her temple. "Remember my abilities. Besides, he showed me his credentials."

Admiration flashed in Brooks' eyes. "To make the Director break protocol—Miss Bennett truly is extraordinary."

Aria smiled confidently. "Your Director has a keen eye for talent."

Turner interjected, "Seems my judgment wasn't bad either." He shot Brooks a smug look.

Brooks shook his head ruefully—no one could outmaneuver the Director.

The old fox still had his tricks.

"Then we'll be colleagues," Brooks raised his cup. "Looking forward to working together."

Aria clinked glasses with him. "I'm sure we will."

During the meal, Turner sampled a dish and sighed. "This is decent, but nowhere near Miss Bennett's cooking."

Since tasting Aria's dishes, his palate had become spoiled.

Aria chuckled. "I'll invite you all over for dinner sometime."

The three men brightened immediately. "That would be wonderful!"

As they parted, Brooks lowered his voice. "A blood mage has infiltrated the capital—targeting those born under inauspicious lunar cycles. Over a hundred victims already."

Aria's heart clenched.

The same blood mage who nearly killed her brother in her past life!

"Any detailed information?" Her voice turned icy.

Brooks shook his head. "Classified, I'm afraid."

Aria nodded understandingly. "I'll stay vigilant."

Turner spoke up, "Actually, we have another favor to ask today."

Aria anticipated him. "The talismans?"

Turner gave a thumbs-up. "Miss Bennett reads minds. Our unit desperately needs your medicinal charms and tracking sigils."

"I can supply medicinal charms regularly," Aria agreed readily. "Besides hemostatic ones, I can provide antidotes, fever reducers, and other varieties."

Turner slammed the table excitedly. "Perfect!"