Angel's body froze unexpectedly, and before he could react, his movements became uncontrollable. His limbs felt paralysed, an odd sensation for someone in a virtual world. Even so, cold sweat trickled down his spine.

A peculiar voice thundered in his ears, startling him. "I've been waiting for days. Finally, you're here!"

Angel swallowed hard, his voice trembling. "Who… Who are you?" Despite the fear gnawing at him, he maintained composure. Somewhere deep inside, he had already prepared himself for this moment, suspecting it might be his last. He had long admired YC—no, Ash—a figure so unattainable that he felt like a mere speck of dust before a mountain.

The voice chuckled darkly, its tone unpredictable. "Haven't you done your research? Surely, you know who I am."

Angel's face turned pale, then flushed with frustration. "You know I'm no match for you. Why toy with me?"

After a pause, the voice softened slightly. "My apologies for the theatrics. But let’s not pretend you don’t know why I’ve sought you out." It then turned razor-sharp, laced with menace. "You must understand the consequences of your actions."

Angel hesitated but knew there was no escape. He confessed everything—the job, the infiltration into the training base’s core systems—leaving no detail omitted. His honesty was not driven by courage but by resignation. Closing his eyes, he braced for the end.

Seconds passed. Nothing. His body began to respond again.

"Just finish me already!" Angel shouted, but the oppressive presence had vanished.

Confused and unable to sense the ominous voice anymore, Angel tentatively moved. The surrounding players, passing by in the virtual plaza, cast him puzzled looks. Had Ash really let him go?

Fighting back a wave of emotion, Angel logged out swiftly, determined to process the encounter in safety.

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At the Farr Quadrant Research Centre, Rowan Lin reclined in his chair, basking in the quiet buzz of productivity. The transparent crystal windows offered a clear view of the bustling teams below, filling him with satisfaction. This facility, shrouded in deliberate obscurity, was the true cornerstone of the Lin family’s dominance. Rowan often marvelled at how such an unassuming site wielded immense power, easily ranking among the top five across the quadrant.

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The fact that Victor Lin, the head of the family, had entrusted him with its management was a source of pride. Rowan, a distant relative in the family, had earned this trust through sheer competence.

Yet today, his thoughts were clouded by family rumours. Tension between Victor and his eldest son, Ethan Lin, had reached unprecedented levels. Ethan, known for his calm demeanour and impeccable work ethic, was once the undisputed heir-apparent. But now, whispers suggested Victor might favour his younger son, a brash and self-indulgent troublemaker.

Sighing, Rowan shook his head. Even the most astute leaders faced family turmoil.

Suddenly, a shrill alarm shattered his musings.

Rowan leapt to his feet, his sharp instincts kicking in. Striding into the main hall, he immediately barked, "Calm down! Everyone back to your stations. Report!"

The researchers, initially panicked, settled quickly under Rowan's commanding presence. A young man, Alan Mok, hurried over, his face pale. "Director, someone’s attacking our core systems. The main AI has lost control!"

"What?" Rowan's mind raced. Even with his composure, this revelation struck hard.

Alan's voice cracked. "Director, we’re out of options. If this continues, we’re doomed!"

Gritting his teeth, Rowan forced himself to stay focused. "Take me to the control room. Now!"

The usually quiet control centre was now teeming with frantic staff, each desperately attempting to regain control of the compromised system.

An elderly researcher approached Rowan. "Director," Mr. Mok Senior began, his expression grim, "this intruder… They're no ordinary hacker. I suspect a Grey Domain Controller."

Rowan's stomach sank. He knew the reputation of these elusive digital combatants. Their methods were insidious, their attacks nearly unstoppable.

"Is there nothing we can do?" Rowan demanded.

Mr. Mok shook his head, gesturing towards a team of specialists wearing virtual headsets. "They’re trying to locate the intruder. But Director… You should notify Victor immediately."

Rowan nodded, pulling up his communicator. To his dismay, the call wouldn't connect. His expression darkened.

Could the Lin family headquarters also be under attack? The precision of this assault suggested meticulous planning.

Rowan turned to Mr. Mok. "Hold the fort here. I’m heading to Victor directly."

Without waiting for a reply, Rowan sprinted towards the nearest window. The staff gasped as he jumped out of the 80th floor, but Rowan’s move was calculated.

Mid-air, he activated the mech stored in his wristband. The crimson armour unfolded seamlessly around him, its cockpit snapping into place as he landed within.

The mech’s thrusters roared to life, propelling him towards the northwest at breakneck speed.