[Kaida and Aric return to Zerith, where tension is brewing once again. In the heart of the city, a new faction has risen—the Phoenix Syndicate, a powerful underground organization, bent on exploiting the remnants of the Skyward technology for their own gain. Their emblem, a flaming phoenix, is now a common sight in the darker districts of the city.]

[As they move through the city streets, they notice the Syndicate's growing influence—armed patrols, secret dealings, and whispers of a new, dangerous project.]

Kaida (quietly):
"They wasted no time filling the void."

Aric (nodding):
"Someone always does. That's how the world works. You cut down one threat, another grows in its place."

[Suddenly, they're stopped by a group of armed Phoenix Syndicate members, who block their path.]

Syndicate Guard:
"No one passes here without clearance."

[Kaida steps forward, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword.]

Kaida (calmly):
"I don't need clearance."

[The guard smirks, but before he can speak, Kaida swiftly disarms him with a flick of her sword, leaving him stunned on the ground. The other guards hesitate, unsure whether to engage or retreat.]

Kaida (coldly):
"Tell your leader I'm coming."

[The guards scatter, and Aric looks at her with a mixture of amusement and concern.]

Aric:
"Subtle."

Kaida (grimly):
"Subtle doesn't get answers."