Chapter 816

Isabella racked her brain but couldn't recall the name of that apprentice.

She rummaged through files until she found the answer: "Summer."

Summer. The season.

Han Xia.

At least one character matched, significantly increasing the likelihood that she was Summer.

If true, all mysteries would unravel.

Since Liam's appearance, strange incidents had occurred one after another.

The mastermind possessed extraordinary abilities—vanishing without a trace while demonstrating exceptional skills.

Only someone trained from childhood within the organization could achieve this.

Especially an apprentice personally mentored by Liam. Their prowess would undoubtedly be top-tier.

The critical question remained: Did Liam know?

Vivian had probed him before. He seemed oblivious. But if it was his apprentice, could he truly be unaware?

"I'll investigate her."

Vivian immediately logged into the Dark Web, searching for Summer's mission records.

Though enigmatic, the Dark Web publicly displayed mission logs. On the Agent Leaderboard, Zero held the top spot, with Shadow close behind.

Despite Vivian's four-year hiatus from missions, her ranking remained solid.

Among the top ten, she recognized most faces—some from their organization, others from rival groups.

Bringing up the rear at tenth place was Summer.

Securing a top-ten position meant formidable skills.

Vivian scrolled through discussion threads and discovered Summer's Chinese name: Annika Heilbronn.

Annika. Han Xia.

The truth emerged. Han Xia was an alias. Annika was her true identity.

After confirmation, Vivian meticulously analyzed Annika's mission records. Though nearly flawless, she spotted inconsistencies.

Blurred photos unmistakably revealed Han Xia's face.

"Han Xia is Summer—Liam's apprentice. What's her endgame? Should we expose her now?"

"Regardless of her motives, confronting her is the only way to stop this. Liam owes me an explanation."

"Do you think Liam's involved?" Isabella pressed.

Vivian hesitated.

"I don't know."

She hoped Liam was ignorant. But with Annika causing such chaos, could the top agent—her mentor—truly remain unaware?

Ethan often said four years could change anyone. She hadn't changed, but others might.

He'd warned that Liam might no longer be the same person. Vivian had dismissed it then. Now, doubt crept in.

She considered Liam a dear friend, someone who'd faced life-and-death situations with her. Though no romantic feelings existed between them, Liam's feelings for her...

Vivian bit her lip, her gaze troubled. She'd always hoped Liam could move on and rebuild his life.

Now, it seemed some things were destined to remain unchanged.