Ezra nodded—then shook his head again.

The contradictory gesture left Ray slightly confused. Only after a moment of thought did Ezra explain, "It is indeed a state-backed organization. But with the rise of ability users, power structures have shifted dramatically. The current decision-maker is a young faction leader."

Ray shrugged. "Doesn't matter. As long as it's an official national organization, that's fine. I'm just worried someone might be impersonating the state to scam people.

"Reconst