Morning arrived quietly over Munich. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the hotel, painting the room in a warm, golden glow. Unlike the previous few days, Leo didn't wake to the sound of an alarm or a System notification. Instead, he opened his eyes naturally, enjoying a rare moment of peace. He lay still for a few seconds before reaching for his phone. Several new emails had arrived overnight. Some were from companies congratulating Nexus Cryptics on securing its partnership with Jaeger Cybernetics; others were invitations to technology conferences, cybersecurity forums, and private business meetings. The Jaeger partnership had done exactly what Mr. Sterling predicted: people had started paying attention. Leo smiled. Recognition wasn't his final goal, but it was proof that Nexus Cryptics was climbing steadily. After getting dressed, he headed downstairs. The hotel restaurant was already lively. Samuel was balancing a plate stacked far too high with pancakes, eggs, saus

The following morning arrived with clear skies over Munich. Leo stood by the window of his hotel room, looking out at the city one last time. Germany had given Nexus Cryptics more than he could have imagined. They had secured their first major European partnership, met some of the brightest minds in technology, and earned the respect of people who once knew nothing about the company. A knock came at his door. "Come in." Samuel walked in with a suitcase in one hand and a warm pastry in the other. Leo looked at him. "...You're eating already?" Samuel looked confused. "It's breakfast." "You ate before coming here." "I know. This is second breakfast." Leo laughed. "I don't think that's a real meal." "It is if you're hungry." Half an hour later, the four of them met in the hotel lobby. Adrian was already checking everyone out while Lena reviewed their travel documents. Samuel yawned. "I still think we should stay another week." Leo smiled. "You've changed your mind about leavin