Chapter 115

Lucy White listened to Agent Hanks' explanation and gained a clearer understanding of the Special Department's operations.

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

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

Hank Cooper and Victor Stone exchanged glances, both visibly surprised.

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

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

Only the Director had the authority to approve such conditions.

"Your Director," Lucy replied frankly.

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

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

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

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

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

Lucy understood—Ethan Smith's identity remained a secret within the department.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The old fox still had his tricks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lucy's heart clenched.

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

"Any detailed information?" Her voice turned icy.

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

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

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

Lucy anticipated him. "The talismans?"

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

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

Cooper slammed the table excitedly. "Perfect!"