NXT_MARVEL

In a city where shadows hold more power than light, Detective Marcus Trent is drawn into a web of deceit, manipulation, and a chilling game that threatens to unravel everything he knows. When he receives an anonymous message promising disaster, Marcus finds himself chasing a series of cryptic clues that lead him to a mysterious figure known only as The Shadow—a mastermind pulling the strings from behind the scenes.

The clues are sinister: coordinates, encrypted messages, and cryptic warnings, all leading Marcus to a chilling truth—someone is always one step ahead. As the puzzle pieces fall into place, Marcus discovers that the game is more than just about tracking a criminal. It’s a countdown to a terrifying revelation—the endgame has already begun.

As the stakes rise and more lives are threatened, Marcus is forced to confront his own demons and question the trust he places in his colleagues. With no allies, no clear path forward, and the shadow of the mastermind looming closer, Marcus must navigate a treacherous maze of false identities, hidden motives, and twisted alliances.

The question is no longer just who is behind the chaos, but how far will they go before Marcus becomes the next pawn in a game where no one wins?

The Silent Veil: Code of Shadows

The footsteps drew closer, their measured rhythm echoing through the broken hall of mirrors. Marcus spun, his heart slamming against his ribs. The shards of glass crunched under his boots as he searched the dim space. The reflections continued to twist and ripple, casting distorted versions of himself with every step.

"Who's there?" he called out, his voice more steady than he felt.

"I am you, Marcus," a voice whispered from the broken glass.

He turned sharply, but nothing stood there. Only his reflection, splintered and distorted, stared back with cold, knowing eyes.

A figure emerged from the shadows.

Her eyes glowed faintly, and her face—usually so expressive—was blank, devoid of warmth.

As she stepped closer, the light from the broken mirrors cast long, flickering shadows. In her hand, she held a dagger—one Marcus recognized instantly. The ceremonial blade from the throne room.

"Emily, put the knife down," he said, his voice low and careful.

"You left me," she said softly, her voice hollow.

"You left me!" she screamed, her eyes flashing with pain and fury.

Before he could react, she lunged.

Marcus dodged, barely avoiding the blade as it sliced through the air. He stumbled backward, glass slicing into his palms as he hit the ground.

The dagger struck again, and Marcus rolled aside, scrambling to his feet. The hall of mirrors twisted and spun around them, reflections multiplying their struggle.

"Why did you abandon me?" Emily's voice cracked with emotion.

"I didn't! I'm trying to save you!"

"Lies," the reflection's voice whispered, merging with Emily's. "You only want power."

Marcus staggered, clutching the wound as blood seeped between his fingers.

"You have to fight, Marcus," the reflection urged. "Or she will kill you."

He looked at Emily—her face twisted with rage, her eyes glowing with something not her own.

"No," he whispered. "I won't hurt her."

"Then you will die," the reflection said simply.

And this time, Marcus didn't dodge.

Edge of Betrayal