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. Eighty-five chapters. Eighty-five battles. And still, Elias Vance was out there, planning his next move.
"We need to talk," Vance said, his voice low. "I've been monitoring my father's communications. There's been a development."
Axel turned, his eyes tired. "What is it?"
"He's not just hiding anymore. He's mobilizing. He's calling in every asset he has, consolidating his forces. He's planning something big."
"Bigger than the Ascension Protocol?"
"Much bigger." Vance's voice was tight. "He's going to try to destro
