Elliot leaned closer to the sigil, inspecting its glow one last time. "We're done for today," he said after a moment. "I don't want you pushing your limits too far without rest. But remember this feeling, Vas—the way the energy flows, the way the sigil responds to your control. Lock it in your mind."

Vas nodded, feeling both exhausted and exhilarated. "I will."

As they gathered their things, Elliot placed a hand on Vas's shoulder, a rare gesture of familiarity and trust. "You've got what it takes, Vas. But there's more to mastering this than just skill. Keep honing your discipline, your patience. We're just getting started."

The warmth in Elliot's words resonated with Vas. It wasn't just about learning anymore—it was about proving himself worthy of Elliot's faith. And for the first time in a long while, Vas felt like he was on the right path, not just in his training, but in forging something deeper with his mentor.

"Next time," Elliot said with a sly grin, "we'll test your limits even more. Dual-layered sigils are only the beginning."

Vas grinned back, already feeling the familiar rush of challenge settling in his chest. "I'm ready."

As they left the room, Morrigan let out one final approving caw, her form shifting back into the subtle glint of the earrings Vas wore. The training session had ended, but Vas knew the journey ahead was far from over. And with Elliot's guidance, he felt ready to face whatever came next.

As Vas made his way home, a text pinged on his device. It was from Sarah: "I found something. It's a clue, but I don't feel comfortable discussing it over text. Can I come by the Hek Mansion tomorrow?"

"Yeah, that sounds suspicious," Morrigan commented from her perch, her voice dry.

"I agree," Vas replied, glancing at his CipherSync. "Still, I doubt she can do much with her visit. So, I don't see the harm in agreeing."

Sarah was sitting on a large, plush couch in an opulent office, the kind of place where power and influence hung thick in the air. The room was luxuriously appointed, but the sharpness in the air spoke more of business than comfort. She glanced up at the woman across from her, a figure seated behind a sleek desk.

"He agreed," Sarah said, her voice low but steady.

"Good," the woman's voice responded, cool and commanding. She was striking—fair skin, long dark hair pulled into an elegant updo, and sharp, defined features. Her eyes were lined with dark makeup that accentuated their intensity, while her lips were painted a deep shade of crimson. She wore a form-fitting, futuristic outfit with purple and black accents, a corset-like top paired with sleek, high boots that gave her an imposing presence. "Elliot's been paying more attention to him. We need you to gather information—on both him and what he's been up to. And work your way into the Hek family. If you get close, you can pull more than just information. Trust will come in handy."

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Sarah's expression remained neutral, but there was an edge to her tone when she responded. "Don't worry. But what about the investigation Elliot assigned to Robbie and me? The one on the side?"

The woman—Nyra—dismissed the concern with a wave of her hand. "Don't sweat it. My people will find more information on that soon enough. We'll feed Elliot just enough to keep him in the dark but still trusting you. For now, stick to the plan. Tell Vas what I told you to tell him, and stay close."

"Roger that." Sarah stood, her posture more confident now. "I'll see you tomorrow."

As Sarah turned to leave, a man entered the office. He was dressed sharply, the kind of professional attire that spoke of high status. His presence was commanding, though not imposing.

"Miss Nyra," the man greeted her with a nod.

"Yes?" Nyra's attention shifted back to him, her sharp gaze unwavering.

"The people Elliot's been looking for—" the man started, but was cut off when Nyra smiled, a predator's smile, dark and knowing.

"Good," she said, voice smooth as silk. "Contact them and set up an appointment. Make it soon."

"As you wish," the man replied, bowing slightly before leaving as quietly as he had entered.

Nyra leaned back in her chair, her fingers steepled, her gaze distant as she considered the pieces on the board. Everything was falling into place. Soon, Vas would be more than just an asset—he'd be a key piece in a much larger game.

Morning arrived, and with it, Sarah approached the Hek Mansion. For those outside the Hek family, the place was nothing short of ominous. As she had told Vas before, it was a creepy mansion nestled deep within the woods, far removed from prying eyes. The Hek family itself was shrouded in as much mystery as the estate they resided in.

To the public, the Heks were known figures, but their fame only deepened the enigma around them. Abigail Hek was a celebrated war hero, and Gerald Hek had played his part in the war too, though in a different capacity. Celine Hek had forged a remarkable career in the military, while Arthur Hek was a renowned scientist and archaeologist currently holding a prestigious position at the most acclaimed university in the solar system. Clara Hek was a high-ranking officer in the military as well, commanding respect across various circles.

Then there were the children. Jacob Hek, with his meteoric rise through military ranks, was a figure of admiration. Aleara Hek, a sought-after face for modeling agencies and a potential actress, captivated attention wherever she went. Beck Hek, though adopted, was no less impressive—one of the top students and athletes of his generation, with numerous awards across various competitions.

And lastly, there was Vastian Hek.

Information about Vas was scarce, at best, and practically nonexistent at worst. Sure, he was known for being the top of his class, but beyond that, nothing. While the other Hek siblings frequently appeared in public, attending events and social gatherings, Vas remained elusive. Sarah had made it her mission to uncover whatever she could about him, but even with Nyra's help, she came back with empty hands. That, in itself, was unsettling.

Nyra Blackwell wasn't just anyone. In certain circles, she was known as an information broker—a powerful one at that. Her knowledge stretched far beyond what most considered "secrets." Elliot himself had confirmed that Nyra had access to things only a select few were aware of. She was also a high-ranking member of the Scribes, an influential organization dedicated to collecting and safeguarding knowledge. In fact, Nyra had been the one to bring Sarah into the Scribes, serving as both her mentor and her guide.

Yet, even with all her resources and expertise, Nyra had found almost nothing on Vas.

Now, as Sarah approached the Hek Mansion under Nyra's request, the gravity of the task weighed heavily on her. She wasn't just entering the home of a mysterious family—she was walking into the heart of a labyrinth, where every secret seemed to be guarded fiercely. And Vas, the most hidden of them all, was at its center.