Chapter Two: Before the Trap Closes

The wear on Zhou’s cuff link, the finance director’s hand pressed constantly against his right pocket, and a network spike whenever applause sounded all confirmed a three-part authorization ritual. “You have six minutes,” Lin said. “Then the police freeze everything. Give me your key, and I will open the reserve channel. At least you will see where the money is.” “Why should I trust you?” “Because your only other choice is worse.” Zhou pressed his thumb to Lin’s terminal. “First key acquired,” Zero said. The finance director was running for a side door. Su Lan tripped him, picked up the hardware token he dropped, and tossed it to Lin. “Your explanation just doubled.” One key remained.