05:00 PM (Sunset)
Main Hall, Sector 7 Headquarters
Reddish-orange light pierces through high glass windows, creating a majestic yet melancholic atmosphere. The base, which once felt like a hidden warehouse, has been transformed into a sophisticated and organized command center.
This afternoon, the atmosphere at the base feels different. There are no sounds of gunfire or the roar of engines. Instead, there is a respectful silence as all members of Nero Familia gather in the main hall.
The Retirement of the Old Lion
Den stands on a small podium, wearing a black suit without any police insignia. His face looks more relaxed than usual. After decades of playing between two worlds, the High Commissioner has decided to officially resign from the police force—and from the operational front lines of Nero Familia.
"I have given everything to this city, both in the light and behind the shadows," Den said, his heavy voice echoing. "My final task was to ensure our foundation was strong enough to withstand the storm. Now, that foundation is set."
He looked at Ren with pride, then turned to Rion. "As of today, I am no longer your 'Father' or your 'Commissioner.' I am stepping back to serve as a senior advisor behind the scenes. The full leadership of this city now rests in both of your hands."
This move is strategic. With Den retired, he can no longer be pressured by central politics, making him a "ghost" even more dangerous to Nero Familia's enemies.
The New Face of Sector 7 HQ
After the announcement, the base buzzes back to life, but with a new dynamic:
The Medical Wing (The Infirmary):In the left corner, Dr. Suizen has built a pristine emergency clinic. Echi is seen helping him organize serum bottles, while Shanon*l learns to suture wounds on a medical mannequin. This clinic is now a sanctuary for anyone in Sector 7 needing aid.
The Tactical Zone (The War Room):
Garry, Gin, and Shawn are checking the latest weapons inventory seized from the Steel Group. They no longer look like a street gang, but like elite mercenaries in uniform black gear.
The Information Hub: Mia and Mako have upgraded the base servers. Giant monitors now display a real-time map of Ironport, monitoring every police movement through the access provided by Selina and Ricky.
The Two Remaining Rulers
On the upper balcony, Rion and Ren stand side-by-side, watching the activity below. Den's departure from daily operations means the heavy burden now rests entirely on their shoulders.
"Father is really leaving," Ren murmured, crossing her arms. "It's strange. I feel like Ironport is much bigger now than it was before."
"Because there's no longer a safety net," Rion replied. "It's just you and me."
Ren glanced at Rion. Since the Sinclair proposal incident and the rejection on the balcony, there has been an invisible but palpable distance between them. Their professionalism remains sharp, but every time their eyes meet, there is a spark that is immediately suppressed.
"We have a doctor, we have the police, we have the guns," Ren said, trying to shift the mood. "But we also have Sinclair, who still thinks he has a chance with me."
Rion looked toward the crowd below, then back to Ren. "Let him dream for now. When the time comes, that dream will become his nightmare. And for us... this is the beginning of true power."