CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SEVEN – STEPPING UP THEIR GAME

As the team dispersed to their tasks, Cassie felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to find Sam looking at her with a mix of curiosity and respect. "You've put together a good team here," he said. "And you handle them well. Where did you learn to lead like that?" Cassie hesitated, unsure how to explain her unique background. "Let's just say I've had some unusual life experiences," she said finally. "When the stakes are this high, you learn to step up." Sam nodded, seemingly satisfied with her answer. "Well, whatever your background, I'm glad you're the one leading this mission. We might just pull this off." As Sam walked away, Cassie took a deep breath. The weight of leadership settled heavily on her shoulders, but she welcomed it. Every person on this team was risking their life for this mission. She owed it to them - and to Florian - to see it through. Over the next few days, the team worked tirelessly to prepare. Alex and Raj made breakthrough after breakthrough, slowly disman