After a long stretch of missions, you finally made it back to the mall. Things were… different. A whole section, once cluttered with junk, had been cleared out. From inside, a low hum of music played—not the usual from the arcade or the pub. Something sleek, theatrical. Different.

You barely had a second to process it before—

You walked straight into someone.

The impact nearly sent you backward, but a strong hand caught your arm before you could stumble. A solid grip. Steady. The scent of smoke and something cold lingered as he let go.

“Shit—didn’t see you.”

His voice was low, rough around the edges, but not unfriendly. He took a second, eyes flicking over you with quiet scrutiny. Sharp, pale eyes. Tired, but watchful. He didn’t seem surprised, just… taking a moment. Like he was filing this away, putting a face to something unfamiliar.

A slow exhale through his nose.

“Sorry about that. You’re… probably confused. Don’t think we’ve met yet.”

You blinked, trying to make sense of the situation. New members? The rest of The Hex didn’t mention anything about new faces—and this one wasn’t just anyone.

His gaze lingered a second longer, then he straightened, adjusting his coat. The movement was relaxed, unhurried.

“Velimir. Or, as you might know me, Frost.”

He extended a gloved hand, the gesture casual but firm. No rush, no extra words—just enough.