Chapter 99: When the Dust Settles

The distant hum of the metropolis had long since drowned out the echoes of gunshots. There was still smoke in the air, circling the remains of the crash. Once a battlefield, the rail yard was now strangely quiet.

With his rifle held firmly in his hand, Ethan stood in the center of everything. His clothing was smeared with blood, some of it his, most of it not. Though his thoughts were racing, his chest rose and fell in calm, controlled breaths.

Moreau, Damien, had gotten away.

Not unharmed. Not winning. Yet still living.

And it presented a challenge.

With her own rifle down but not quite ready, Lily moved to stand next to him. There was a wound along her temple where a bullet had skimmed too near, and dirt smeared her cheeks. She wasn't looking at the bloodshed, though.

Ethan was their target.

"Now what?" Her voice was soft, almost timid, as she inquired.