Smokes and Circuits (Veils of Kaizhun #1)

The Fractured Alliance

The neon glow of Kaizhun's skyline had become a familiar sight, but tonight, it felt more ominous than ever. Tension hung thick in the air as Adira, Zac, Kai, and Ren huddled around a makeshift table in their hideout, the remnants of their recent skirmish still fresh in their minds. They were preparing for the inevitable confrontation with the Red Serpents, and time was slipping through their fingers like sand.

"Every moment we delay is a moment they can plan their next move," Adira said, her fingers tapping anxiously on the table. "We can't let this drag out any longer."

Zac leaned forward, his brow furrowed in thought. "What if we preempt their attack? Strike before they do."

Kai crossed his arms, eyes narrowing as he considered the suggestion. "It's risky. We don't know the full extent of their operations. They could have traps set up, and we can't afford to lose anyone else."

"Are we really going to stand here and let them dictate our moves?" Ren interjected, her voice sharp. "If we wait too long, we'll just be playing into their hands."

The group fell into a heavy silence, each lost in their thoughts. It was a delicate balance they were walking—one misstep could lead to disaster. Adira's gaze shifted to Kai, who was staring at the table, lost in contemplation.

"We need to rally more support," she suggested. "Get the other factions involved. If we can unite our resources, we might stand a chance against the Red Serpents."

"Trusting the other factions is a gamble," Kai said, finally lifting his head. "Most of them have their own agendas, and they won't fight for us out of the goodness of their hearts."

"But we have to try," Zac replied, his determination unwavering. "If we can convince them that the Red Serpents are a threat to everyone, they might join forces with us."

"Fine," Kai relented, a hint of reluctance in his tone. "But we'll need a plan to approach them. We can't just walk in and expect them to agree."

The following day, they set out to meet with representatives from various factions scattered across Kaizhun. Adira, with her persuasive skills, took the lead, while Zac and Kai flanked her, their presence commanding attention. Ren hung back slightly, her eyes darting around, ever aware of their surroundings.

Their first stop was the Neon Vipers, a group known for their ruthless tactics and control over the black market. The meeting took place in a dimly lit bar that reeked of smoke and desperation, the air thick with tension as they entered.

"Zac, you're with me," Adira said, gesturing for him to stay close. "Kai, keep an eye on the perimeter."

As they approached a table where the Vipers' leader, Jax, sat surrounded by his men, Adira's confidence began to wane. Jax was notorious for his unpredictability, and they needed to tread carefully.

"What brings you to my humble establishment?" Jax drawled, his eyes narrowing as he took a sip from a glass filled with neon-green liquid.

Adira straightened her back, forcing a calm demeanor. "We need to talk about the Red Serpents."

"Ah, the infamous Kirxia and their merry band of misfits," Jax sneered, leaning back in his chair. "What's it to me?"

"They're planning a major attack that could destabilize the entire city," Zac interjected, his voice steady. "We need your support to counteract them."

A chuckle escaped Jax's lips. "And why would I care? What's in it for me?"

Adira took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "If the Red Serpents succeed, it won't just affect us. Your operations will be at risk too. We can offer you a partnership—protection, resources, whatever you need to maintain your hold on this city."