New Allies in the Shadows

As they pulled back from their tender moment, Lyra's expression turned serious, and she glanced around the vault, her eyes scanning the space as if searching for something or someone. Teddy followed her gaze, but there was no one else in sight. "What's wrong?" he asked, his brow furrowed with concern. "I think it's time we got some backup," Lyra replied, her voice low and determined. "This case is getting too big for just us to handle. We need people we can trust." Teddy nodded in agreement. "I was thinking the same thing. Who do you suggest we bring in?" Lyra's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. "I have just the people in mind. Let's go pay a visit to Mari and Lian." Teddy's eyes widened in surprise. "You think they're ready for this? They're still students, Lyra." Lyra's expression turned firm. "They're not just students, Teddy. They're skilled and resourceful, and they have a personal stake in this case. Besides, I have a feeling they're already involved, whether they know it or not." Without another word, Lyra turned and strode out of the vault, Teddy following closely behind. They made their way through the winding tunnels of Gringotts, eventually emerging into the bright sunlight of the wizarding world. As they walked, Teddy couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. Bringing Mari and Lian into the investigation would undoubtedly raise the stakes, but it could also bring in fresh perspectives and skills. When they arrived at Mari and Lian's favorite haunt, a small, quirky café on the outskirts of Diagon Alley, Teddy could see the two students huddled in the corner, deep in conversation. Lyra strode over to their table, Teddy following closely behind. "Mari, Lian," Lyra said, her voice firm and commanding. "We need to talk." Mari and Lian looked up, their eyes widening in surprise as they took in Lyra's transformed appearance. For a moment, they just stared, then Mari's face lit up with a warm smile. "Lyra! You look... amazing!" Mari exclaimed, jumping up to hug Lyra tightly. Lian, however, looked more serious, his eyes flicking to Teddy and then back to Lyra. "What's going on, Lyra? Why the sudden change?" Lyra's expression turned grave. "We have a case to discuss, and we need your help. Are you in?" Mari and Lian exchanged a look, then nodded in unison. "We're in," Mari said, her voice firm. And with that, the four of them sat down, ready to dive into the unknown, determined to uncover the truth behind The Synthesis and bring them to justice.