The war room's door swung open as Ryker strode in, his presence commanding immediate attention. His eyes met Selene's, and she nodded, signaling the council's meeting was over. The advisors began to file out, their hushed whispers echoing in the hall.

Ryker approached Selene and Marcus, who remained at the table, their expressions grim.

"What's the latest?" Ryker demanded, his tone leaving no room for evasion.

Selene recounted the interrogation and the revelation of the secret society, The Shadow. Ryker listened intently, his jaw tightening with each detail.

"So, we have a clandestine organization aiming to overthrow us," Ryker said, his voice hard. "We need to act fast."

"We've already...