The words sent a cold chill down my spine.
He studied me for a long moment before continuing, His tone growing colder, more calculating. "I intend to use them as weapons. But they require special training."
I swallowed hard, my mind racing. Hundreds? This was far beyond anything I had imagined. "And you want me to train them?" I asked, the words slipping out before I could stop them.
He nodded slowly, as though this was the most obvious thing in the world. "Yes. You've shown aptitude in conditioning hybrids, and these creatures will require a different kind of touch. A more refined approach. I believe you can handle it."
I felt a surge of anger rise within me, but I forced it down. "And what exactly would you expect from me in this training?"
The Supreme Leader's mask shifted slightly, as though amused by my question. "Your skills will be put to the test. The creatures will be conditioned to serve—just as you've done with the hybrid. But I'm sure you'll find it more challenging."
I clenched my fists, the rage bubbling beneath my calm exterior. "You're asking me to train monsters. You've created them to be nothing more than weapons."
He tilted his head, a soft chuckle escaping him. "And what of it? The world needs weapons, Rhea. The world is a cruel place, and these creatures are the tools that will shape it. You've seen how this place operates. I'm simply using what I have at my disposal to create a new order."
I could barely contain my disgust. "And where does that leave me? A tool too?"
The Supreme Leader's voice grew sharper. "You're more than a tool, Rhea. You're a key part of my plan. If you succeed in training these creatures, I will reward you." He leaned forward slightly, his voice becoming more persuasive. "Perhaps, if you're successful, I might even allow you a night or two with the pretty hybrid you just finished training."
I stood there in stunned silence, the weight of his words sinking in. Training Project Wraith was a terrifying prospect. But the thought of Nine... I couldn't let him be lost to me completely. And if this was the way I could ensure his survival, I would do it. I would endure whatever it took.
"Understood." I said, my voice flat.
He nodded, his eyes calculating behind the mask. "Good. We'll begin soon. And remember, failure is not an option."
He paused, his expression hardening. "You're still affiliated with Project Wraith, Rhea. This is your responsibility now. Don't forget that."
The finality in his tone left no room for argument, and I knew there was no way out. I was already too deep in this. My only choice now was to play the game. To survive. And to find a way to bring Nine back to me—whatever it took.