Andrew checked the time—it was already 8.30 p.m. He wondered if Natasha and Dylan had made their move yet, though he knew he would hear about it in the morning.

Just then, a group of people sat down nearby, their laughter carrying across the space.

"Aspen, you're absolutely brilliant! I can't believe you managed to strike a deal with Atlas Giordano, the king of the Northern District!"

"Yes, yes! Aspen, you're truly worthy of being from the main Stevens family branch. Even here in Jayrodal