Storm Gathering

Location: Blackthorne Estate – Tavara

The storm outside mirrored the mood inside the Blackthorne estate. Lightning flashed across the sky, casting jagged shadows on the marble floors. Damien stood by the window in a sharp black shirt, hands clasped behind his back, his gaze fixed on the horizon.

Behind him, Nora entered, her heels clicking softly. "He's here," she said quietly. "Victor Kane's convoy just passed Westbridge."

Damien didn't turn. "So it begins."

Nora approached, slipping her hand gently into his. "You're not alone in this. Whatever Victor Kane is plotting, we'll crush it—together."

He finally turned to look at her, eyes softening only for a moment. "I know. But I need to make sure Tavara knows what's at stake. If they side with Kane, they'll be signing their own demise."

Just then, Cyrus walked in, removing his gloves. "Parliament is hesitating. They're afraid of Kane's global pull, but equally terrified of what we exposed about Echo Zero."

Damien arched a brow. "Then it's time we stop playing defense. I want every Blackthorne asset on alert. Triple-check Nora's security detail. And tell Erika to prep the international press package."

"You're going public?" Nora asked, surprised.

"Not with everything," Damien replied. "Just enough to burn Victor's mask. If he's going to pretend to be the savior of innovation, we'll remind the world who he really is—a man who sold his own country's prototype AI to the highest bidder."

Cyrus smirked. "Well, that'll make headlines."

"Let them burn," Damien said coldly. "While they scramble for truth, we'll lock down the board."

A knock sounded at the door.

Kaito, one of Damien's top operatives, entered, soaked from rain. "Sir, Victor Kane just checked into the Grand Imperia. He's requested a private meeting."

Damien's jaw tightened. "He's making the first move. Good."

Cyrus looked to Damien. "Do you want me there?"

Damien shook his head. "No. This one's personal."

He turned to Nora, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "If anything happens—"

"Don't," she interrupted firmly. "You come back to me. No matter what."

He nodded.

The thunder roared again as Damien exited, coat billowing like a shadow behind him.

This wasn't just a meeting.

It was the first battle.

And only one king could walk away from the table.