Rain still clings to Dallas Fontaine’s coat when he and Elena Vane step into Professor Dayton’s study. The courier’s envelope is open, the paper spread under a brass lamp, and Dayton’s magnifier catches a stamped code beside a Covington mark.
Professor Dayton
This is not a routing note. It is a leash. Covington uses the stamp to log every hand that touches the paper.
Dallas Fontaine
The ink is fresh. So is the threat.
Elena Vane
Can you trace where it points, Professor? Before they find us again?
Professor Dayton
Already done. The code ties to a relay office near the waterfront, and if they know you have this, they know you are close.
A hard knock lands on Dayton’s front door, followed by a second, more patient rap. Through the cracked curtains, a dark sedan sits curbside, engine idling in the rain.
Professor Dayton
They have followed the stamp here. If you stay, they will burn this room and everyone in it.
Dayton shoves a folded street map into Dallas’s hand, his own face gone tight and pale. The study’s warm lamplight suddenly feels like a spotlight.
✓ Quest Accepted
Reach the waterfront relay office