"Why did he use the code 'A-97,' Protocol Aethelard’s code word? Juri, repeat," I commanded, almost demanding.
Code A-97 was used exactly once during Serena’s satellite contact 90 minutes before the abduction, informing her of an 'Immediate transfer, forceful pickup.' It served as a final message delivery, instructing Serena: surrender Dahlia without resistance. The message came from within: from someone who knew Blackford’s plan for full isolation. And it was Ethereal’s authentic code, Juri confirmed. That flat tone forced me to confront what might be the greatest betrayal I’d ever experienced.
I went silent, processing the pain. Not Cypher, not Kael. But my own blood in Ouroboros brought me down, weaponizing my family’s genetic vulnerability as a negotiation tactic. Betrayal of the hig
