Chapter 15: Shadow of the Past

Through the shattered windows of the safehouse, the early sun created long, slanted shadows that highlighted the destruction left by the struggle. The air smelled metallic, like blood and gunpowder, a dismal reminder that their war was far from finished. Dante stood in the midst of the space, eyes glancing over his men's bruised features. Their features etched exhaustion, but so did defiance. At a price, they had survived another night.

The disclosure of Marco hung above them like a dark cloud. "Giovanni is already moving forward." Dante's thoughts kept repeating the words, chewing at him as he sought to put together what Giovanni's scheme might be.

"Marco," Dante said, catching the younger man's eye. "Where is the prisoner"?

Marco waved toward the rear room, where they had created a temporary holding space. "He is here, boss. gave very little voluntarily, but he cracked enough to say Giovanni's not done.

Dante nodded, then looked at Enzo. "Bring him out." We are in need of responses.