Three days after Kael’s death, Hayden’s crew received an unexpected visitor. The safehouse doors slid open to reveal a young woman in a sleek Syndicate uniform. Her presence set everyone on edge.

  “Who are you?” Griff demanded, his hand on his weapon.

  The woman held up her hands in a gesture of peace. “I’m here to deliver a message,” she said, her voice calm. “From Dregan.”

  Hayden stepped forward, his expression unreadable. “What’s the message?”

  The woman’s gaze flickered to him, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. “Dregan respects strength, and you’ve proven you have it. He’s offering a truce.”

  The room erupted in murmurs. Griff scoffed. “A truce? After sending Kael after us?”

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  The woman didn’t flinch. “Kael acted without authorization. Dregan believes there’s no need for further conflict between us—provided you stay out of his way.”

  Hayden crossed his arms, studying her. “And what happens if we don’t?”

  Her smile didn’t reach her eyes. “Then you’ll meet a force far greater than Kael.”

  The Codex hummed in Hayden’s mind, analyzing her words. “Probability of Syndicate Retaliation: High. Recommended Action: Maintain Strategic Advantage.”

  “Tell Dregan I’ll think about it,” Hayden said, his tone dismissive.

  The woman nodded. “You have three days to decide.”

  As she turned to leave, Hayden called out, “What’s your name?”

  She paused, glancing back at him. “Ava.”

  The door slid shut behind her, leaving the room in silence.

  Griff broke the tension. “You’re not actually considering this, are you?”

  Hayden shook his head. “No. But it’s a sign we’re getting under Dregan’s skin. And that’s exactly what we need.”

  Tessa leaned against the table, her tattoos flickering. “What’s the plan, then? If Dregan’s offering a truce, it means he’s buying time. He’s not done with us.”

  “Exactly,” Hayden said. “Which is why we’re going to hit him where it hurts.”

  The Codex buzzed in agreement, its voice steady. “Mission Updated: Dismantle Syndicate Operations in Strategic Zones.”

  As the crew began discussing their next move, Hayden’s thoughts lingered on Ava. There was something about her—something the Codex couldn’t quantify. And that intrigued him more than he cared to admit.