The Web Tightens

"Where is the boss?" she demanded, her voice sharp.

Rico laughed weakly, blood dripping from his mouth. "You think he'll let you find him? You'll never make it out alive."

Chloe crouched beside him, her eyes blazing. "Try me."

The Merciless loomed over them both, silent and imposing.

Rico's grin faltered under their combined glares. "Alright," he said, his voice barely audible. "I'll tell you. But you won't like the answer."

At the gym, Jack stared at the envelope left on the desk by an unknown courier. The paper was black, the seal bearing a symbol he didn't recognize—two crossed daggers encircled by a serpent.

He broke the seal and unfolded the letter, his eyes scanning the neatly typed words:

"Jack Hayes,

 Your reputation precedes you. You've proven yourself in the ring, but there is still one who doubts your strength.

 Tomorrow night, you will face your greatest challenge yet. Come prepared. Failure is not an option.