Elias's POV

The interview with Mercer lasted two hours.

He asked about the tunnels. About what I saw. About Hale fighting himself. About the shadow creatures.

Then he asked about my background. Where I grew up. My family. My medical history.

Every question felt like a trap.

I answered carefully. Exactly like Ronan and I practiced. Short responses. No extra information.

Mercer watched me the entire time. Taking notes. Studying my reactions.

"Interesting," he said at one point.

"What ...