The sun had barely risen when Kael, Aria, Ryken, and Veyra assembled on the outskirts of the city. A narrow alley led into the heart of a district that had been destabilized by a recent surge of Null activity. Holographic maps projected from Aria's device hovered in the air, highlighting probable Null operative locations. Kael's mark pulsed lightly, synchronizing with the energy streams that indicated the movement of their targets.
"This is it," Aria said quietly. "A small Null cell. Three operatives. No large-scale deployment, but they're dangerous. Their mission: infiltration and sabotage. If we intercept them now, we can prevent chaos and gain intel."
Ryken checked his weaponry meticulously, the click of each chamber filling the tense silence. "I've done plenty of missions," he said, voice rough. "But Null operatives… they're not human. Treat this like a fight for your life because it is."
Kael felt a cold thrill running down his spine. The whispers guided him, highlighting paths through the alleys and energy weak points in the operatives' positioning. "We'll move in three directions," Kael said, surprising even himself with his clarity. "Aria, you take the rooftops and create diversions. Ryken, flank from the west alley. Veyra and I will intercept at the primary entry point."
The plan was simple, yet elegant. Coordination was key. Kael's pulse quickened as he prepared to extend the Nexus energy further than he had ever dared. Control had improved, but every surge carried risk.
Aria glanced at him, her expression a mix of pride and concern. "Focus on flow," she reminded him. "You can anticipate, but don't overreach. The Nexus has limits—even for you."
Kael nodded, determination hardening his features. "Understood."
They moved into position silently, shadows among shadows. The Null operatives had not yet detected them—but Kael could feel the tension in the air, the faint pulses of dark energy building like a storm ready to break.