Zen couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. Alice's sudden change in behavior had left him with more questions than answers. He tried to focus on his training, but his mind kept wandering back to their conversation in the gardens.
As he walked through the academy's corridors, he spotted Ryker, who was leaning against a wall, looking like he was waiting for someone.
"Hey, Ryker, have you seen Alice?" Zen asked, trying to sound casual.
Ryker's expression turned serious. "Actually, I was just looking for you, Zen. Alice has been called away on a mission. She left early this morning."
Zen's heart sank. "What? Why didn't she tell me?"
Ryker shrugged. "I don't know, but it seemed urgent. She packed her bags and left in a hurry. The commander himself showed up to escort her out."
Zen felt a pang of worry and confusion. Why would Alice leave without saying goodbye? What kind of mission could be so important that she had to leave without warning him?
Determined to get answers, Zen decided to seek out Archon Vex, his mentor. Maybe he knew something about Alice's sudden departure.
As he made his way to Vex's office, Zen's mind was filled with questions. What was going on? Would he ever see Alice again?
*To be continued...*