Unit #314

After their meal, the warmth of good food still lingering in their bodies, Ethan and Mia stepped back into the street, weaving through the shifting currents of Valeron Cross. The district buzzed with quiet intensity, the kind of hum only places adjacent to Labyrinth zones had—low-grade tension mixed with the weariness of those who survived it.

Ethan checked his phone. "Agency's five blocks out," he muttered.

"Let's hope they don't make us fill out a hundred forms," Mia replied, tugging her hoodie closer. "I've had enough paperwork in the infirmary."

Ethan didn't respond, but the corner of his mouth lifted.