One of the Maximus family's elders said, "It doesn't matter who she is. The mission failed. Unless Dean takes action himself the next time, no one from the family will make another move for a long time."

"Exactly. And we still have to worry about whether Deborah or Harmony Clinic will come knocking on our door for an explanation. Let's just forget about that terrifying woman."

In truth, there was one thought Atlas hadn't shared—those who died were the ones who attacked Felix.

Could that woman have been Felix's ally?

But he refused to consider that possibility, as admitting it would mean that there was no hope left for them.

…

Meanwhile, Dickson and Felix slowed their pace. Dickson, for one, felt like he'd narrowly escaped death.

"I've faced countless life-and-death situations, but never before have I experienced true despair. That woman managed to make me feel it."

Wiping the sweat off his brow, Dickson couldn't help but shudder. Although the dead were all middle-stage Transc