Ethan followed Linh through a long, polished corridor, the faint hum of technology filling the air. The walls shimmered with embedded lights, casting a soft glow over the metallic surface. Despite the futuristic design, the air smelled fresh—like grass after rain. As they walked, Ethan noticed something unusual. This place wasn't just a base; it was alive. Vines climbed along the sleek walls, small streams of water trickled through carefully designed channels, and the ceiling, impossibly high, mimicked a natural sky. It was unlike anything he had ever seen.
At the end of the hall, an enormous door slid open silently, revealing a breathtaking chamber.
The room stretched upward, its vast ceiling vanishing into soft light. Platforms lined the circular walls, and from them, six figures emerged, their presence commanding. They stood above, looking down at Ethan and Linh like silent watchers. Each of them was distinct—different ages, different backgrounds—but all carried an air of quiet power.
One of them, an older man with silver-streaked hair and piercing eyes, spoke first. His voice was calm, yet it carried across the chamber effortlessly.
"Ethan Tran. Welcome."
Ethan remained still, his instincts telling him to stay alert. He could feel their gazes studying him, weighing his worth.
A woman in a deep blue coat stepped forward. Her features were sharp, calculating. "You seek the truth. But are you prepared for what it costs?"
Linh leaned closer and murmured, "They're testing you. Just stay sharp."
Ethan took a breath. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't ready."
A younger man, his arms folded, smirked. "We'll see."
The silver-haired leader nodded. "Our group exists beyond the laws of this city. We deal with those who believe they are untouchable—those who corrupt, exploit, and destroy lives without consequence."
Another member, a tall, quiet woman with dark eyes, continued. "And we've found our next target."
A holographic screen flickered to life in the center of the chamber. A towering skyscraper appeared, its glass exterior gleaming under the city lights.
"This building belongs to Darius Vinh, one of the wealthiest and most dangerous men in the country." The silver-haired man's expression darkened. "For decades, he has hidden behind his wealth, committing crimes so horrific they were buried under money and influence. We have the evidence to expose him, but it was stolen."
The woman in blue folded her arms. "Your first mission is simple: break into Vinh's tower and retrieve what was taken."
Ethan studied the image. "Security?"
The younger man chuckled. "Tight. Armed guards, biometric scanners, top-tier surveillance."
Linh glanced at Ethan. "Still think you're ready?"
Ethan exhaled slowly. He had trained for moments like this. And if this mission would bring him closer to the truth about his family's murder—he had no choice but to succeed.
He looked up at the six figures above and nodded.
"When do I start?"