The desert station's generator hummed with a rhythm that had become the soundtrack of their survival.
Axel stood at the window, watching the sun rise over the endless sands. The orange glow painted the horizon, a stark contrast to the darkness that had consumed their lives. Seventy-eight chapters. Seventy-eight battles. And still, the Ascendancy's leader was out there, waiting for his moment to strike.
"We need to talk," Vance said, his voice low. "I've been monitoring the global networks. There's been a development."
Axel turned, his eyes tired. "What is it?"
"The Ascendancy's collapse has created a power vacuum. Other organizations are moving in, trying to fill the void." Vance's voice was tight. "We've got reports of new players emerging—groups we've never seen before."
"Like what?
