The dawn broke over the Outlands, cold and gray.
I moved through the ruins, my steps silent, my eyes scanning the horizon. The settlement was behind me, the people safe for now. But I knew it wouldn't last. Aurelius was coming. And I was going to find him first.
"Aldric." Valeria's voice came through the communicator, her words crackling with static. "I've been tracking Aurelius's movements. He's not at the fortress anymore."
"Where is he?"
"He's moving. Heading toward the old research facility. The one we used before."
"Then that's where I'm going."
"Alone?"
"Yes."
"Aldric—"
"I'll be fine." I cut the connection and kept moving.
---
The journey took three days.
I moved through the Exclusion Zones, keeping to the shadows. The terrain was treacherous, the dangers constant. But I
