The Crimson Nexus

nbridled ambition. The building's reflective exterior mirrored the glowing cityscape aroun

derelict holo-billboard. Kael took a long drag from his cigarette,

alk," Nyssa said, adjusting her disruptor hols

at's why we're no

eyebrow. "You ha

his coat. "We walk in, make a little noise, and get Vex's attenti

ety was never your s

"Not when time'

-

rble, holographic displays, and impossibly tall ceilings. Security dron

tion desk, where a sleek android gr

," it said in a pleasant monoton

th mock politeness. "Tell Rael Vex that Kael Arde

falter. "I'm sorry, Mr. Vex is unavailab

flick of his thumb. The device emitted a sharp whine, and the an

their movements jerky and erratic. Nyssa pulled her

n," Kael said, drawing hi

-

ugh nothing was amiss. Kael adjusted his coat, his mind racing. Vex was a known manipulator-a man who thr

light. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of Erythra P

em. He was a tall, silver-haired man dressed i

. His voice was smooth, almost disarmingly

ing compared to the mess you're involved in. We know about

eting Kael's with an unsettling confidence.

enlighten us. Why was Solen pushing legislation that would have crippl

thought he could change the rules of the game, make the wo

element. I supplied technology to legitimate clients-not

voice cold. "Cut the act, Vex. You're fundin

tly. "The Nexus isn't just an artifact, Detective. It's the key to unlocking humanit

or tightened. "So you admit

on't deny that I share his vision. The Nexus is pow

ed Vex by the collar, shoving him

re unnerving. "Even if I knew, you

is eyes. "We'll

lding. The floor trembled beneath their feet, and ala

el's arm. "We ne

d happened. "You're too late, Detective," Vex said, a siniste

yssa. "We're tak

open, and a swarm of combat drones poured into th

isruptor firing as she

e glared at him. "Now,

eaving Nyssa to hold off the drones. His hea

ewhere else in the city-somewhe

ts. He had to stop th