"Ashes of the Unseen."

Riven gripped the small data chip tightly in his hand, his mind racing. The man had disappeared into the shadows, leaving behind more questions than answers. His body tensed as he turned, slipping back into the cover of the city's dark streets. He had a decision to make—head straight for the warehouse or see what was on the chip first.

He knew he couldn't afford to waste time, but he also couldn't ignore the possibility that this chip contained vital information. With a low breath, he made his choice.

---

An Hour Later – Abandoned Apartment

The dim light from a cracked screen flickered as Riven inserted the chip into a secured device. Seren sat beside him, eyes narrowed as she worked her way through the encryption. Lirian stood against the wall, arms crossed, watching silently.

Seren let out a soft huff. "Whoever sent you this didn't bother locking it. Either they wanted you to see it… or they're setting you up."

Riven's fingers tapped against the table impatiently. "Just play it."

Seren nodded and pressed a key. The screen shifted, showing an old security recording. The footage was grainy, but the outline of a large facility was visible. Inside, several figures moved, transporting large crates marked with unfamiliar insignias.

Then, the camera focused on one person.

A tall man, dressed in a long coat, giving orders. His movements were precise, his presence demanding. Riven's breath caught as his heart pounded against his ribs.

It was his father.

Lirian whistled. "That explains why that guy knew your name."

Seren studied the footage. "This recording is dated two months ago. If your father is alive, he's been hiding for a long time."

Riven clenched his jaw. His father's disappearance had haunted him for years, a mystery he had buried beneath survival. But now, the past was resurfacing.

Seren continued analyzing the data. "This facility… it's nowhere near the warehouse we were heading to. It's a completely different location."

Riven straightened. "Then that means the warehouse is a dead end."

Lirian sighed. "I was looking forward to a fight."

Seren ignored him. "There's more," she said, pulling up another document. "Your father wasn't alone. There are mentions of a project—something called 'Umbra Initiative.'"

Riven frowned. "What the hell is that?"

Seren shook her head. "No idea. But whatever it is, your father was involved."

Riven's fists tightened. The shadows of the past had caught up with him. He had spent years avoiding them, but now, he had no choice.

It was time to chase the truth.