01

PROLOGUE

She panted but never faltered. Stopping was not an option.

"No, I must keep going. I shall not stop."

Each step was agony—her limbs burned with exhaustion, muscles protesting with every motion. Yet, she pressed forward, unwavering. She had to. She would. Not now. Not yet.

A quick glance over her shoulder confirmed that no one was in pursuit. Her lips let out a shaky breath. However, relief was not a luxury she could afford yet. The soles of her shoes were likely ruined from the relentless friction against the ground. But that was the least of her concerns. Survival was the priority. She needed shelter, a place to regroup before making her next move—leaving this place for good.

"They must never find out about this."

I reached into my jacket, fingers wrapping around a small vial—a striking shade of violet. Holding it up to the dim city light, I examined it for only a second before tucking it securely back into my pocket. No hesitation. No second-guessing. Just keep going.

Adrenaline coursed through my veins, and for once, I welcomed it.

Finally, civilization. The city pulsed with movement—crowds filled the walkways, cars weaved through congested streets, and the ambient noise of urban life created the perfect camouflage. Nexus Square—the beating heart of Nexis City.

As the capital of Nexara, Nexis City stood as a global epicenter of technological advancement. From energy mining to groundbreaking research and development, its industrial revolution was unmatched. Aspiring engineers, scientists, and scholars flocked here, drawn to its world-renowned museums, cutting-edge culinary innovations, and the seamless integration of technology into everyday life. Nexara prided itself on progress.

Moving swiftly through the dense crowd, I pulled out a burner phone and dialed without hesitation.

“I understand. We’ll handle it from our end. Keep up the great work,” a voice responded—cold, efficient, detached.

I gave a curt nod before hanging up. Without a moment’s pause, I crushed the device in my palm. But mere destruction was not enough. Summoning my Synth, I ignited the remnants, watching as the flames devoured every trace, leaving not even ash behind.

Just as I would erase myself from their reach.

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