January 7, 2026 — 06:14 AM
Overwatch Command Center – MOA Complex, Manila
The sea fog lingered along the edges of the city like a stubborn veil. Dew clung to the reinforced windows of the MOA Complex's western wing, painting ghostly streaks across the panoramic view of Manila Bay. Inside the command center, the usual low hum of screens and conversations was drowned by one steady sound:
The methodical clacking of Thomas Estaris's boots.
He paced behind the elevated operations table, eyes locked on the procurement screen. The digital interface flickered before him in soft blue light, illuminating the darkened war room. Marcus stood nearby, arms folded, face unreadable.
"Final tally?" Thomas asked without looking up.
