"Thora, Lycan King and the other congressional reps have signed off. From now on, Wolffang Unit is fully independent. No system commands it, no one dispatches it. All personnel files, operations, and mission details are top secret—4S level. "But there are rules. First, you need to stay in contact with headquarters at all times. Second, be ready to take orders and assignments from the Astralis Empire. Third, whenever you're off imperial duty, your identity must stay hidden." Thora paused at the base gate, eyebrow raised at Hugo's instructions. "Understood," she said simply. As soon as she hung up, the sound of gunfire echoed from deep inside the base. Wolffang Unit was showing its teeth to the world. She couldn't wait to see what kind of storm they'd make. Hugo, who had rattled off all the instructions in one breath, only noticed something strange after hanging up.Why had Lycan King agreed without hesitation? He'd been ready for a full debate. Meanwhile, in the gilded royal estate. "Sir, why approve General Stanton's request so fast?" Lycan King's adjutant, Kyle Dixon, asked in confusion. "Because my grandnephew called me recently," Lycan King said with a smile, setting down his coffee. "Mr. Blackwood?" "She's someone he trusts completely. Why wouldn't I trust her once?" Lycan King's eyes held a spark of approval. "And honestly, that girl's talent and vision far exceed what I expected. Giving her free rein with Wolffang is the only way it'll become a true weapon." ... Skybound Group. Darius was testing the system Thora had designed when his phone buzzed. It was Kyle. Without looking away from the screen, he answered. "Mr. Blackwood, Lycan King has officially approved Thora's request for Wolffang Unit independence," Kyle said, voice steady. Darius straightened, eyes lifting from the data. "Got it. Thanks." He hung up, a small smile tugging at his lips. Toying with his phone, he realized Thora hadn't contacted him once in over a month. What a cold-blooded girl. With that thought, he dialed her number. "Darius?" Her voice was as cool as ever, and it made his grin even wider. "Thora, it's been a while. Do you miss me?" "Beep—beep—beep—"She hung up. She had no time for his nonsense. Watching her team split into two for live-combat drills, she silently noted everyone's strengths, weaknesses, and quirks. Darius didn't give up. He called again. Thora almost let it go to voicemail, but she still picked it up in case it was important. Her tone, though, was unfriendly. "Spit it out or hang up." Her voice was cold. This time, Darius didn't joke or flirt. He cleared his throat lightly. "The project you requested is done. When do you want to check it out?" Thora blinked, surprised it was finished so quickly and a little pleased. Her tone softened. "I'll come tomorrow." Darius tapped his fingers on his thigh, voice low, a little heated. "Good. I'll be waiting—" She hung up before he could finish."Tsk." Darius clicked his tongue in annoyance. Should he complain about her ruthlessness, or be glad he was at least useful? Otherwise, he might not even get the chance to hear her voice.