Simon "Ghost" Riley was accompanying his children, Ella and Bruce, on a school field trip to a local skate park. The twins, both 11 years old, were brimming with excitement as they took turns trying out the ramps and learning a few basic tricks. The laughter and cheers of children filled the air as the skate park buzzed with activity.

Ghost kept a watchful eye on the group, ensuring the kids were safe while quietly admiring Ella and Bruce's determination to master the basics of skating. As he glanced around, his gaze landed on an unfamiliar figure. Ella and Bruce were talking to a child who stood apart from the others. The child had a peculiar presence—emotionless eyes that seemed to pierce through anyone who dared meet their gaze. They were dressed in a long-sleeve top and a scarf, an odd choice for the mild weather, which immediately set Ghost on edge. His instincts, honed over years of military service, kicked in. The child’s demeanor and appearance made his gut churn—a subtle but undeniable sense of unease.