The man’s voice was distorted by the visor, deep and mechanical, but the intent behind his words was sharp enough to slice through Sophia’s bones and send Chills through her. Her first instinct was to run. Her second was to scream.Neither would save her.The figure tilted his head, studying her like an object in a lab jar. “I’m actually seeing you in the flesh. It’s an honor,” he murmured, almost to himself, before taking a slow step forward.Sophia’s grip tightened on the respirator mask. “I don’t know who you are,” she said, her voice shaking despite her effort to sound firm. “But you’re making a mistake.”He chuckled—a cold, humorless sound. “It’s no mistake, I assure you. You’re worth more than the Cold Cell, more than Cipher… more than you even realize.”Sophia’s mind spun, confused. What did he mean? Worth more than Malachi in what way exactly? Before she could ask, movement flickered behind him.A blur of black and steel.Malachi.He moved like he was a part of the shadow