The Oval Office at 6 AM felt different than it did during normal business hours. The morning light streaming through the tall windows carried a weight that President Sarah Martinez had learned to associate with crises that couldn't wait for normal diplomatic channels.
She stood behind the Resolute Desk, reviewing briefing papers that painted a picture of supernatural politics spiraling beyond anything her administration had prepared for. Seventy-two hours. That's how long Lysander Ravencroft had given them to respond to demands that challenged the foundation of modern supernatural cooperation.
"Madam President," Chief of Staff David Chen announced from the doorway, "the National Security Council is assembled."
"All of them?"
"Secretary Williams, Director Foster, General Morrison, and we've got Ambassador Chen on secure video from Geneva." David's expression was grim. "Plus Dr. Reyes from the Supernatural Affairs Division."
