The Spider's Web

As Avery climbed the tower steps, her thoughts raced with the consequences of the Puppet Master's disclosure. The frigid night air seemed to whisper secrets, mirroring the intriguing aroma of her father's perfume. She pushed the idea away, focused on the work at hand.

The library basement buzzed with nervous energy as Avery rejoined her crew. Faces turned to her, excited and worried.

"Alright," Avery started, her voice firm despite the pain in her belly. "We're dealing with a new degree of danger. The Puppet Master isn't simply another competitor — they're playing a game bigger than anything we've fought before."

Lucas leaned closer, his emerald gaze burning. "So what's our move?"

Avery took a big breath. "We go on the attack. Elena, I need you to look further into those financial papers. Follow every tip, no matter how little. Damien, seek out to your shadier links. See if anyone's heard whispers about our strange puppeteer."