"Start with diplomacy," Richard said, folding his arms behind his back as he paced the room. "They're still in the area, so we've got time. Ray, I want you to keep engaging with them over the next couple of days. Get a read on who they are, what they want. Most importantly—find out if they've got any family in Starlight City."
He paused, then added with weight, "We need to get control of them. Anyone that strong this early in the apocalypse… there's no way they don't have at least one high-tier Awakened among them."
Ray nodded. "Got it."
Richard reached into his coat and pulled out a glowing crystal core, tossing it to Ray. "This Tier 4 core is from your father. He sent it over for you. We figured, with all the Tier 3 zombies you captured, you'd be the first to break through."
Ray caught it, his expression darkening.
"But then those traitors screwed everything up," Richard continued, voice cold. "Don't worry. They won't get far."
