Three weeks after the Meridian Solutions operation, Elena sat in her research office reviewing forensic analysis from the recovered sample when Agent Reyes appeared at her door, expression carrying the particular tension that usually preceded significant news.
"We found him," Agent Reyes said without preamble. "Webb. Confirmed location."
Elena set down her documents immediately. "Where?"
"Small research outpost, remote Canadian wilderness," Agent Reyes said. "Apparently he's been operating alone since his facility was compromised, working with whatever equipment and materials he managed to relocate before our tactical team arrived."
"Alone," Elena repeated. "No security detail, no additional personnel?"
"Surveillance suggests genuinely minimal presence," Agent Reyes confirmed. "Financ
