An Invitation
The city had quieted down since their last raid. For once, the streets didn't feel like they were on the edge of chaos. Remond had spent the last few days training, balancing school, and keeping an eye on any new developments regarding Axiom Syndicate.
That morning, Hayato approached him after school, his usual unreadable expression in place.
"Got a minute?"
Remond nodded, shutting his locker. "Yeah, what's up?"
Hayato crossed his arms. "Master Ho Dieng got discharged today. Yuki and I are holding a small feast at our place to celebrate. Just us and you."
Remond blinked in surprise. "Me?"
Hayato nodded. "You're his student. It'd be rude not to invite you."
A flicker of warmth spread through Remond's chest. Despite their rocky start, it seemed Hayato finally saw him as friend, after what happened during that Bloody Night.
"Alright. I'll be there."
---
A Quiet Celebration
Hayato's home was modest, tucked away in an older part of the city. It had an air of tradition, with wooden floors, simple décor, and an undeniable sense of warmth.
Yuki greeted him with a rare smile. "Glad you came."
Master Ho Dieng sat at the low dining table, his movements slower than before, but his presence just as commanding. He studied Remond with sharp eyes.
"You've grown stronger."
Remond bowed slightly. "Still a long way to go."
Ho Dieng chuckled. "Strength isn't just about power, boy. It's knowing when to use it."
The night passed with light conversation, a much-needed break from the weight of their battles. But in the back of Remond's mind, a nagging feeling refused to leave him alone.
Something wasn't right.
---
Danger in the Dark
Across the city, Innes typed furiously on her laptop. She had uncovered too much, and she knew it.
The explosion at the railway docks wasn't just a random act of violence. It was a cover-up. Someone had been moving something important, and she had been tracking the pattern.
She leaned back, staring at the article she was about to publish.
"Axiom Syndicate: The Hidden Hand in Our City's Crimes."
Her fingers hesitated over the keyboard. This was bigger than anything she had written before. It wasn't just about crime—this was a declaration of war against a group that played by no rules.
Her phone buzzed.
Unknown Number.
She frowned and picked up. "Hello?"
Silence.
Then—"You should stop digging."
A chill ran down her spine. "Who is this?"
The voice was calm, almost amused. "Just someone giving you a friendly warning. If you value your life, walk away."
The call ended.
Innes stood up, her heart hammering. She grabbed her bag and rushed to leave—but the moment she opened the door to her apartment, she stopped.
Two figures in black suits stood outside.
And they weren't here for a friendly chat.
---
Interrupted Peace
Remond had just finished eating when his phone buzzed.
Sid.
"Dude, we've got a problem."
Remond stepped aside. "What is it?"
Sid's voice was tense. "Innes just got targeted."
The room felt colder instantly. "What?"
"She was digging too deep. They found her."
Remond didn't wait for more details. He grabbed his jacket and bolted for the door.
Hayato was right behind him. "What's going on?"
"Innes is in danger."
Hayato's eyes darkened. "Then let's move."
They dashed into the night, knowing full well they might already be too late.
But Remond refused to accept that.
Not this time.