The night felt heavy, like it was pressing down on the city. Clouds covered the sky, hiding the moon and stars, and the streets looked darker than usual. Kai stood by the window and watched the lights far below, each one marking a life that had no idea what was coming. He knew this kind of quiet well. It was the kind that always came before something broke.
Aria sat at the table, papers spread out in front of her. Maps, names, notes, and timelines covered every inch of space. She had never thought she would be someone who planned attacks or studied power lines and safe exits. Yet here she was, calm on the outside, focused on every detail. Fear still lived inside her, but it no longer ruled her hands.
Elias arrived just after midnight, moving without sound. He closed the door behind him a
