35. A sudden eliminated

While Ethan, Emma, and Shirley enjoyed a warm, pleasant dinner, the scene sharply contrasted with the chaos unfolding at the headquarters of the Subversive Alliance. The usually calm and efficient atmosphere had been replaced by a palpable tension, with agents rushing through the corridors, faces etched with fear and uncertainty. Whispers of dread circulated as they tried to make sense of the recent string of mysterious assassinations that had claimed the lives of their own.

In just a few days, their Delta and Gamma members had been systematically eliminated, one after another. What was even more alarming was that three Beta-level operatives, some of their best, had also been taken out. The realization that someone could infiltrate and decimate their ranks so effectively sent shockwaves through the entire organization. These weren't just ordinary agents; every one of them had undergone rigorous, state-level training for at least two years, their combat skills honed to perfection. The fact that they could be killed so quietly, without any trace, was nothing short of terrifying.

Speculation ran rampant. Who could have possibly orchestrated such a calculated attack? Was it revenge from a rival organization? A warning from an unknown enemy? The possibilities were endless, and each was more frightening than the last.

In the midst of this turmoil, the tension reached a boiling point inside the office of the Subversive Alliance's first leader. He sat behind his imposing desk, his usually composed demeanor fractured by a deep frown as he listened to the urgent report from one of his top aides.

"What's the situation?" the leader demanded, his voice cold and authoritative.

The aide, struggling to maintain composure, quickly summarized the recent events. "Sir, in the past few days, we've lost a significant number of our Delta and Gamma members. And worse, three Beta-level operatives have been taken out as well. All signs indicate a highly coordinated and skilled attacker. We believe it's not just a random assault, but a targeted operation."

The leader's eyes narrowed, the wheels in his mind turning as he processed the information. "Who would dare challenge us like this?" he muttered, half to himself. The Subversive Alliance was a world-class organization, feared and respected in the shadows. The thought that someone had the audacity—and the capability—to strike at them so effectively was infuriating.

As he considered the recent events, a particular incident crossed his mind—one that had seemed trivial at the time but now took on a new significance. "There was that failed assignment," he mused aloud, his tone laced with irritation. "The one involving the disowned heiress. It was the first time in our history that we botched a job."

The aide nodded cautiously, not wanting to interrupt the leader's train of thought.

The leader's brow furrowed even deeper as he connected the dots. Could this be related? Was there a link between their recent losses and that failed assignment? If so, it meant that the person or group responsible was far more dangerous than they had anticipated.

"Get me everything we have on the heiress," he ordered sharply. "I want to know her background, her connections, and anyone who might have an interest in protecting her. This might not be a simple case of a failed mission—it could be the catalyst for this entire situation."

The aide quickly left the office to carry out the order, leaving the leader alone with his thoughts. He couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something much larger. If it turned out that the recent assassinations were connected to the heiress, it would mean they had severely underestimated their opponent. And in their world, such a mistake could be fatal.

As the leader sat back in his chair, contemplating the growing threat, a sense of unease settled over him. Whoever was responsible for this had to be found—and fast. If they were capable of striking at the heart of the Subversive Alliance, then no one was safe. Not even him.

Back at the restaurant, unaware of the storm brewing on the other side of the city, Ethan glanced at Emma, who was still smiling from their earlier conversation. A protective instinct flickered in his eyes, a silent vow that he would do whatever it took to keep her safe. Little did she know, the dangers surrounding them were far greater than she could imagine. But for tonight, at least, Ethan was determined to let her enjoy the moment.

Even if his mind was already planning the next move in a deadly game that was only just beginning.