“Do you know your way around here well?" Rist asked as Dath maneuvered the vehicle towards Sola's headquarters in the early morning light. Despite having grown up in the sprawling city of Marstat, she was hopelessly lost. Dath, his eyes focused on the road, responded with a level of confidence, "I do know a few routes, but I don't rely on memory alone, I’ve got a map on my eye. I don't visit here often enough to keep up with changes." Rist let out a small sigh, her gaze drifting to the cityscape blurring by. "I didn’t go enough places when I lived here. And when I did go out, I always used the commuter. Right now, I can't even piece together where in Marstat we are," she confessed, a note of frustration in her voice. Understanding her disorientation, Dath offered a small nod, "Marstat is simply too big. I doubt anybody knows every inch of it. At the moment, we're in the northern sector of the city. Since you're from the eastern sector, there's no reason you would've ventured out this way. Only those with specific business in this sector tend to familiarize themselves with it." Rist nodded in agreement, taking solace in the knowledge that the city's expanse was a challenge for anyone. They continued their journey, the vehicle smoothly gliding towards the heart of the northern sector, with Dath's map guiding them through the intricate web of Marstat's roads. “Did you provide on-location services for any clients?" Kelfin asked. “Ara's salon had a few clients who required that, but I wasn't involved," Rist clarified. "There was a senior stylist who took care of all the out-of-salon appointments. She was the only one with that privilege." "You weren't the senior stylist then?" Dath chimed in. Rist chuckled dismissively at the suggestion. "Me? A senior stylist? Hardly." Dath persisted, "But your hair always looks good. And you did well with Ghel’s hair." “Two people isn’t much of a sample,” Rist pointed out. “Besides I was still pretty new. I’d only been there a short time.” Despite Rist's modesty, Kelfin shared his impression. "You've shown considerable skill for someone who hasn't been in the field long," he observed with a nod of approval. "I have to agree with Kelfin," Dath added. Seeing an opening for a playful jab, Rist countered, "So, when will you let me have a go at cutting your hair?" Dath responded with laughter, as he dismissed the idea. "No chance. I like my hair long," he declared. “Have you got your badge, Dath?” Kelfin asked. Dath responded by holding up his identification so they could see in the back seat. Kelfin shifted his attention to Rist. "And yours?" he questioned with a subtle yet expectant tone. Rist promptly produced her badge, the laminate catching a gleam as she clipped it securely to the fabric of her top, right over her heart. Kelfin had donned his badge earlier, its presence now a subtle declaration of his readiness. As they approached their destination, Dath expertly maneuvered the vehicle up to the entrance of their target building, settling it to a gentle stop. He promptly exited the vehicle and in a seamless motion, assisted his companions by opening the doors for them. “Parking is just over there,” he informed them, casually pointing to a nearby lot. "I’ll join you shortly. Please, stay close until I can accompany you inside," Dath requested with a protective edge in his voice. Kelfin nodded silently to show his understanding and agreement. Rist followed closely behind him as they entered the building and saw Yol engaged in conversation with a group of reporters. Rist intentionally distanced herself from Kelfin, mindful of appearing strictly professional in her role as his assistant. The man accompanying Yol managed to disentangle himself from the cluster of inquisitive reporters, making his way over to greet the newcomers with a cordial expression. "Kelfin, you made it. And you must be Rist. Welcome to the team," he remarked, he greeted both with handshakes meant for the cameras. Catching sight of the man's identification badge, Rist acknowledged the introduction politely. "Shor, it's good to finally meet you." Shor gave a subtle nod of affirmation. "I've been spending a considerable amount of time around here as of late," he commented casually. His attention shifted momentarily towards Kelfin as he added, "I've also been handling the intricacies of the compacts dilemma from our end." Kelfin's response was conveyed through a simple, understanding nod. Rist discerned that he was likely alluding to helping the kids bypassing the transfer camp. "Come, let's wrap up our dealings with the media," suggested Shor, gesturing for them to follow. He led them back to Yol and the rest of the group. Upon their arrival, Yol introduced Kelfin in his official capacity as the Senior Supervisor of Development Sales. Immediately, the reporters directed a barrage of inquiries at Kelfin, with some probing into the details surrounding the recent business acquisition and others delving into the topic of his unexpected absence. Rist maintained a calculated distance, attentively observing the proceedings. She was learning how far apart she and Kelfin could be and her presence still help him. And she had a rough idea how long before he’d need physical contact in a group this size. She scanned the area and observed Dath talking with the security guard stationed at the entrance. His gestures were animated, indicative of an argument. Curious about the situation, she made her way over to gain clarity on the matter. "Entry is strictly limited to executive personnel," the guard stated firmly. “I’m with one of the senior execs,” Dath countered. “There’s no indication of that on your badge," the guard pointed out, indicating the lack of authorization on Dath's identification. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Rist quickly returned to Kelfin's side. The throng of reporters swarmed around Yol, hanging on his every word, distracting them long enough for her to communicate the issue discretely. She lightly touched Kelfin’s arm and whispered the details into his ear. Upon hearing the news, his expression turned to one of exasperation. He excused himself. “Just once, I’d like a trip that didn’t start with problems,” Kelfin muttered. His voice was laced with annoyance at yet another complication. He followed Rist back to the entrance to resolve the matter with Dath and the security guard. Kelfin's brow furrowed in frustration as he addressed the security personnel blocking their path. "What's the problem?" he demanded. The security guard shifted uncomfortably, casting a glance at the ID badge before responding, "We were told that only executives from Mor's Corporation were granted access today. However, this gentleman's position with the company hasn't been provided on his badge." Rist discreetly eyed Dath's identification, noting the absence of a job title which was indeed irregular for executive-level clearance. Her gaze then shifted to Kelfin's badge. It should have contained a string of identification numbers after the initial 'M' for Marstat. Kelfin seemed to understand the confusion and promptly interjected, "He works for me directly." There was an edge of authority in Kelfin's voice as he continued, "He holds executive-level clearance. It was Mr. Mor who requested that I bring him along. Would you like me to have Mr. Mor come here to clarify things personally?" The guard looked over at Yol. Recognizing the implied threat of dragging the company's owner into a trivial security check, replied, "No. That won't be necessary. Mr. Mor is the boss, and he can decide who he wishes to accompany him." The guard gestured for Dath to proceed. "Go ahead," he said, a note of finality in his voice that suggested he was ready to move past this matter. "Thank you," Dath said, nodding respectfully to the guard as they made their way past the security checkpoint and into the building, the delay causing only a minor disruption to their day. After finishing their session with the reporters, they started the tour. Walking behind Yol, they followed Shor and a manager from Sola Corporation to the elevators. In the elevator, Rist noticed the manager's name tag, which was simpler than the ones from Mor’s Conglomerate, only displaying the name "Terol" and his position. This made Rist wonder about the logistical challenges of transitioning to such a simplified system. Her attention shifted to Shor's identification badge next, then to Dath's. Both bore their names and registration numbers, which included the initial letter of their birth city followed by a unique sequence of numbers. Unlike Shor and Dath, Yol could trace his lineage back to the early colonists. He carried his family name, a practice that had largely fallen out of favor amid the widespread adoption of individual registration numbers that eradicated the concept of shared surnames. Then there was Kelfin. His ID noticeably bore just his name alongside the letter 'M' indicating Marstat. The string of numbers typically accompanying it was conspicuously absent. Curiosity washed over her. Had the digits worn off? If so, it seemed odd that Kelfin hadn't sought a replacement. Could it have been an oversight during the period of mourning following Marza's death? It wasn’t something to bring up now. Each floor of Sola’s sprawling complex was meticulously organized to represent a distinct division within its multifaceted operations. The second floor was the agricultural hub, where teams worked tirelessly to optimize crop production and sustainable farming practices. One level above, the food processing division hummed with activity as raw agricultural products were transformed into an array of consumable goods, marrying technology with culinary arts. Ascending to the next floor, Rist found herself immersed in the world of grocery store management, where the business of food retail was dissected and reassembled to ensure efficiency and customer satisfaction. Next was an entire floor dedicated to restaurants. This space served as a laboratory of gastronomy, where hospitality met culinary innovation to create dining experiences that could tantalize any palate. However, the tour did not end there as Rist had assumed. Yet another level awaited – a veritable treasure trove of kitchenware. This floor was lined with everything a chef could dream of, from exquisite flatware and fine dishes to an impressive selection of both small and large appliances designed to aid in the preparation of meals. It was a testament to the company's commitment to supporting every aspect of the culinary arts. The pinnacle of Sola’s complex was the most unexpected – a cutting-edge research laboratory. hey developed new varieties of seeds and methods to help seeds from Earth grow in this alien soil. And even after the two thousand years they had been on this planet, they were still finding and testing native flora and fauna from uncharted territories to see if it was safe to eat. Rist could see why Yol wanted the corporation. It was big enough that if they added even one other industry, it could apply to be recognized as a conglomeration. He was removing competition and increasing the size of his own company. She wondered how close to being the largest this would put them. Rist couldn't help but notice something peculiar about Dath's eye—the color seemed to fluctuate. Dath had mentioned before that the hue of his iris was a digital projection from his other eye. However, the accuracy of the color could diminish if his processing resources were diverted to more pressing tasks. Rist wondered what he was looking for. Meanwhile, Kelfin's restless darting gaze and fidgeting hands were tell-tale signs that he was currently grappling with the swarm of emotions of the employees unsure of their future. Sensing his growing discomfort, she seized an opportunity to offer support during their stop at a research station. Under the guise of needing assistance with a problem shoe, Rist grasped Kelfin’s arm as though she required his stability to keep from losing her balance while she feigned fiddling with the troublesome footwear. Dath, quick to understand the ruse, extended his hand to take the shoe, feigning concentration on the nonexistent issue as Rist continued to anchor herself to Kelfin, choosing not to place her shoeless foot on the cold floor. With a look of earnest concern, Dath retreated slightly, appearing thoroughly engaged in the task of fixing the shoe. Kelfin faced Rist with a soft frown, puzzled. She glanced at her hand on his arm. He nodded in understanding. Shortly thereafter, Dath approached, handing back the shoe, his own face neutral as if never having been part of their quiet charade. With Kelfin instinctively placing a comforting hand upon her back, Rist slipped her shoe back on with a sense of normalcy returning. “Better?” Kelfin inquired, but the look in his eye said he was the one doing better. She nodded, continuing their little play-act. “Sorry,” she replied, acknowledging the charade. Shor, unaware of their true actions, chimed in helpfully, "There's an excellent shoe store not far from here. I can send Dath the directions if you need a new pair.” "I think I’m good, but thanks,” Rist assured him. Though she had released her hold on Kelfin's arm, she stayed close enough for her leg to brush against his, maintaining that reassuring contact, until the group prepared to advance to the next stop on their tour. Yol seemed to sense the undercurrent of his companions' actions and his response was subtle. As they spoke, he began nonchalantly touching Kelfin's arm, a gentle and discreet way of ensuring he maintained some form of physical connection. The group approached the entrance to one of the facility’s rooms. There was a palpable shift in the atmosphere as Dath raised his hand, halting everyone in their tracks. His companions looked at him with a mixture of emotions – some with visible irritation questioning his brashness, while those who had known Dath longer were tinged with concern, curious about what could have prompted him to act so decisively. “There are high levels of ammonia in there,” Dath cautioned. Terol bobbed his head in understanding. “We’re in the process of creating a weed killer using ammonia,” he explained. “The indigenous weeds can’t tolerate it, while it’s quite beneficial for many of the plant species that we've imported from Earth.” However, Dath wasn’t swayed by this explanation. “No,” he insisted firmly, “the levels I'm detecting are they're dangerously high.” Terol furrowed his brow, the concern now etching his features as he grappled with the implication of Dath's words. He quickly made his way to an adjacent room, urgency in his steps. There, with a swift motion, he drew back a shade to reveal a thick pane of glass – an observation window that looked into the chamber they had been about to enter. Through the window, a distressing scene unfolded: There were three people inside, and the sight shook the onlookers. Two individuals were already sprawled on the floor, motionless. The third person was still moving, but it was a torturous effort as he dragged himself towards a respirator, fighting for every breath amid the toxic fumes. It was a stark and chilling reminder of the deadliness hidden behind the seemingly innocuous walls and a testament to Dath's alertness for potential dangers that lurked in the air. Terol quickly pressed a button to activate the laboratory's sophisticated exhaust system, which efficiently began expelling the hazardous ammonia gas from the area. As clean air was pumped in and the toxic fumes were drawn out, Terol reached for the communication console to notify the medical team of the emergency. The scientist who had been fumbling for his respirator in his impaired state turned toward Terol. The scientist's expression was one of confusion mixed with relief—he clearly hadn't grasped the situation fully and was likely dealing with the cognitive impacts of ammonia inhalation. Once the potency of the ammonia was reduced to a safe level, and it was confirmed that the environment was no longer a threat, the responders deemed it secure for further investigation. The affected scientists, now under the care of the arriving medical personnel, were safely transported to the hospital for a thorough evaluation and treatment. With urgency easing slightly, the tour group cautiously entered the lab. They kept near the entrance, hesitant to fully immerse themselves back into the space where the incident had just occurred. The pungent smell of ammonia lingered stubbornly, a potent reminder of the narrow escape they had just witnessed. Rist, under the guise of being shaken by the recent event, stayed especially close to Kelfin. Her grip on him was part protective, part seeking comfort; the scare had provided her with an opportunity to show a closeness that otherwise might have been avoided. Meanwhile, Dath explored the laboratory space, even as his colleagues kept a safe perimeter by the door. He was drawn to one corner in particular, where a set of containers caught his attention. He leaned over one of them, examining it with an intensity that betrayed his otherwise nonchalant demeanor. As he straightened up, the signs of irritation were evident—his eyes had turned red and began watering, a physical response to the remnants of the chemical that was still present in the air, despite the room having been declared safe. Kelfin frowned with concern. Yol glanced around the cluttered laboratory anxiously. "Where's an eyewash station?" he asked urgently. Terol pointed to a corner of the dimly lit room, where an eyewash station was tucked away among shelves of chemical reagents. "No," Yol shook his head disapprovingly. "He needs to get away from all these chemicals." "I'll be okay. I have eyedrops," Dath assured them, blinking rapidly as he fumbled for a small bottle in his pocket. "You need more than just drops," Kelfin insisted sternly, recognizing the potential severity of chemical exposure to the eyes. "Where's the nearest eyewash station outside this room?" Yol pressed, his voice tinged with an edge of gravity. "All the labs are equipped with eyewash stations," the lab manager assured them calmly. "This way, please." He gestured with confidence, leading them out of the hazardous environment. Kelfin took Dath’s arm and firmly guided him along to the designated safety area, mindful of his colleague's discomfort. Upon reaching the safety of another lab, Dath used the eyewash station, flushing his eyes thoroughly with the cool, steady stream of water provided. After a few moments, he stopped and reached for his eyedrops, instilling them with a practiced hand. "See, I’m fine. It was just the strong fumes," Dath said, trying to downplay the incident as he blinked several times, his eyes beginning to clear. Yol decisively concluded the day's inspection within the facility, feeling the weight of enclosed spaces after such intensive scrutiny. "I think we’ve seen enough for today," Yol declared. "Fresh air is in order. Have the staff open windows too. Keep me informed about the three we sent to the hospital. We’ll be back tomorrow." Turning on his heel, Yol made his way to the elevator, allowing the silence to be filled with the soft echo of his steps. His team, absorbing the tense undercurrent of the situation, tacitly complied with his departure, trailing behind him without the need for verbal acknowledgment. As they moved, Yol spoke up again. “We’re going to get Dath’s eyes checked out. Shor, take an early lunch. Once you’ve enjoyed some fresh air, ensure that repair work begins promptly and check on the condition of the injured.” Shor, ever concerned about the coherence of their collective efforts, posed a practical question to Yol. “Won’t you be at the hospital?” he inquired, seeking clarity on Yol's plans. Yol, anticipating such a query, had already devised a plan that segmented their responsibilities effectively. “We’ll be at the main office here,” he explained. “The doctors in the lab have medical backgrounds and are more equipped to deal with his prosthetic if the ammonia did any damage.” His tone was reassuring, instilling confidence in Shor that the situation was under control and that Dath would receive the best possible care under the circumstances. Outside by the auto, Dath made for the driver's door. Yol intervened before he could get there. "You're not driving until you've had your vision checked." "But my diagnostics are showing everything is operational," Dath responded confidently, looking slightly annoyed. "We can't take any risks," Yol insisted and, with a decisive air, slid into the driver's seat. Rist, surprised, turned to Yol. "You know how to drive?" she questioned, clearly intrigued. She and the others piled in. Yol let out a warm chuckle that filled the air. "And who do you think taught Kelfin?" he retorted with a slight twinkle in his eye. Rist raised an eyebrow. "So, are we heading to the hospital?" she teased implying he was as bad as Kelfin. Flashing a boyish grin, Yol reassured her, "Relax, I'm more than just a competent driver. Besides, I've never had my license revoked." Kelfin, overhearing the comment, couldn't help but jump in defensively. "Hey, I'm not that bad behind the wheel," he protested, trying to salvage his reputation. Rist snorted with disbelief. "I've ridden with you twice. Believe me, there won't be a third time," she declared with finality. "You've had your license taken away several times," Dath chimed in, offering a reminder of Kelfin's checkered history with driving privileges. “So, Dath, what had your attention so intensely that you ignored the fumes for so long?" Yol inquired with concern. Dath’s eyes narrowed in concentration as he recounted his observations. "The leak from the ammonia. Some of the edges of the hole were smooth, as though it had been punctured with a tool rather than corroded or torn naturally." Yol pondered this for a moment before asking, "Did you notice anything else during the rest of your inspection tour?" "Yes," Dath replied. "Several of the locks on the doors are faulty, and many doors were left unlocked. Terol pretended to unlock them, but I could tell it was just for show. The locks didn’t engage." "We were aware that they had some maintenance issues," Yol assured him with a slight nod. "Anything else that stood out to you?" Dath shook his head. "Nothing else that struck me as unusual." He had a feeling that the seemingly minor defects and oversights might be pieces of a larger puzzle, but for now, those details were all he could provide. “Kel, what did you sense?” Yol asked. Kel nodded thoughtfully, processing the question. “There is plenty of worry to go around. It’s similar to any other time we buy out a corporation. People worry they’ll lose their jobs, or we’ll make crazy changes. There was also nervousness. Usually, it increased as we entered a room and then dropped to almost nothing when we left. It’s likely they were concerned about the new boss coming in. Sometimes, there was even relief.” "So no surprises there? Any sign of corporate espionage?" Yol inquired, a hint of concern in his voice. "Nothing so far," Kelfin assured him. "What about that one conscious lab worker? What did you sense from him?" Yol pressed, his curiosity piqued. Kelfin furrowed his brow in concentration, recalling the emotions he had perceived. "Surprise, relief. Before the ventilation was started, there was regret and confusion." "Most of the employees were expecting us," Rist added. "So why was the lab tech surprised we were there?" The question lingered in the air, mingling with the tension of the investigation. “And where was the fear of dying?” Dath inquired, a furrow of confusion etching his brow. “You didn’t feel fear when we first encountered each other,” Kelfin pointed out with a lack of accusation in his tone, merely stating what he had observed. “I didn’t feel much of anything by that point. But my death wasn’t imminent. I still had a few days,” Dath explained, his voice carrying a small hint of defensiveness over the difference in their situations. “This laboratory employee didn’t have the luxury of weeks to reconcile himself to the concept of death,” Rist interjected, her words heavy with meaning. “And if his actions had been a result of a desire to end one's own life, Kel would have sensed an overwhelming depression and a subsequent sense of relief before the rescue took place not after.” “What are you alluding to?” Yol asked, his curiosity piqued by the turn of the conversation. Rist paused as if to consider the weight of her next words. “What if the gas leak wasn’t a mishap? What if it was by design?” “That’s absurd. Why would anyone deliberately expose themselves to toxic gases?” Kelfin challenged, his skepticism clear in the lift of his inflection. “Perhaps the intention wasn’t to fall victim to the gas. What if the true motive was something more strategic? To act as a deterrent, perhaps, to keep us at bay,” Rist proposed, a new layer of complexity dawning in the air. “Maybe there was something in that lab—something they didn’t want us to see.” Yol leaned forward, the confidence in his ownership clear in his voice. "I own the company," he reminded them pointedly. "What on earth would anyone feel the need to conceal from me?" "Something illegal," Dath proposed with a narrowed gaze, suggesting that there might be untoward activities lurking beneath the surface of the business operations. Rist chimed in with an alternative possibility, her analytical mind considering other potential motives. "Or something they may be selling to the competition," she added, highlighting the risk of internal betrayal that companies often face. Kelfin, looking contemplative, posed a strategic question to Yol, wondering about his motives for the acquisition. "Did you acquire the company for a particular asset or strategic position, or was it an overarching strategy for overall corporate growth?" he inquired. Yol tilted her head thoughtfully before responding. "It was for growth," he affirmed. "Sola’s almost a conglomeration on its own without adding even a second industry. And our food division has always been the weakest." Sensing an underlying complexity to the transaction, Rist probed further with another question. "Was this takeover a hostile one?" she asked, pondering the nature of the acquisition. Yol smiled as he clarified, "It wasn't hostile, just costly. Sola was eager to proceed with the acquisition, reflecting pride in growing Sola Foods from a modest startup to a powerhouse. However, rapid expansion became overwhelming, leading him to let go.” Kelfin expressed his astonishment. "He managed to accomplish that all by himself?" he queried. “Did you offer him a position in acquisitions?” Yol confirmed that he had indeed presented the offer. "I did. For now, though, he desires a respite—a chance to savor the pleasures of life. He mentioned that the prospect of joining us might appeal to him should he get bored of retirement. Meanwhile, can anyone recall the precise location of our offices? I seem to have lost my bearings." "You're heading in the right direction," Dath assured him with confidence. "Continue for another block, then take a right. It will look familiar once you're there." Following Dath's directions, they reached their destination after a few short minutes. Upon arrival, they promptly sought medical attention for Dath's eye. The medical checkup revealed that, thankfully, there was no lasting damage to his eye. However, the provider emphasized the importance of a comprehensive cleaning to ensure its continued function. Dath was initially reluctant to disable his eye — the very thought of it was discomforting. Nonetheless, the technician was insistent, explaining that in order to properly disconnect and clean the high-tech ocular device, it would have to be temporarily shut down. Throughout this procedure, Rist and Kelfin remained steadfastly by Dath's side, providing moral support in what was an undoubtedly tense situation. Their presence was a source of comfort, and, fortunately, the interruption was brief, allowing Dath to quickly resume his activities with his eye functioning properly once more. *** Dath escorted Rist into the restaurant, a cozy diner with a warm, inviting ambiance. It contrasted sharply with the type of elite establishment Kelfin had initially recommended, a place where the rich and famous would typically dine amid a backdrop of opulence and exclusivity. However, Rist yearned for a more laid-back atmosphere where she could truly relax. Yol was cautious about Kelfin overexerting himself so he decided he should only go to Sola’s in the mornings. His schedule now left Rist with some free time, prompting him to suggest that she seize the opportunity to reconnect with her family. Intent on facilitating a reunion, Kelfin took the initiative to contact Ghel, who happily obliged to help coordinate the lunch. Ghel offered to secure a reservation for them at an esteemed restaurant. Yet, for Rist, such refinement felt unnecessary, a sentiment she was sure Cral shared. Both sisters were more at ease in the homely setting of the diner, away from the prying eyes and stiff etiquette of the city's high society. Once inside the diner, Dath subtly excused himself, selecting a table close enough to remain within reach yet far enough to provide the sisters with some privacy. He settled comfortably, allowing Rist to indulge in the familiarity and warmth of her sister's company. It was the kind of moment that no luxurious establishment could offer—the chance to laugh, reminisce, and share a meal in unpretentious comfort. “Rist, hi," Cral exclaimed, wrapping his arms around her in a warm embrace. "I was surprised to hear you were here in Marstat." “Kelfin needed to come," she explained with a shrug, hinting at the gravity of the business that required their presence. "The Sola acquisition? Isn't that supposed to be all wrapped up by now?" Cral inquired, her eyebrows arching in a mix of curiosity and confusion. "Oh, it is," Rist confirmed with a nod. "But there's still so much to coordinate. The acquisition means getting everyone on the same page and managing the transition effectively. Honestly, it's a little beyond my training." As they settled into their conversation, Rist gestured to catch the attention of a passing server and placed their orders without missing a beat. Cral chuckled, shaking her head slightly. "A little? Come on, you’re the smart one in the family. You have a knack for picking up things ridiculously fast." Rist offered a modest smile, downplaying the compliment. "I've never really had to tackle anything too complex. Cutting hair and polishing nails is hardly the work of a genius." "But you excelled in school, and look at all those varied summer jobs you managed," Cral countered. Rist gave a small, conceding nod. "I do okay, I guess. But this," she gestured vaguely, encompassing the responsibilities piling upon her in her new role, "is still beyond me. Half the time, I just feel like I’m standing there, looking completely out of my depth and awkward.” “You looked good. Didn't catch yourself on the news broadcast?" Cral asked. "I haven't had the chance yet," Rist replied, curiosity piqued. "Was I on it?" "Oh, yes. Some reporters were practically tripping over themselves to cover more about you than Kelfin or Mr. Mor," she said with a grin. "Especially after your appearance at the gala—now everyone's dying to know who you are. You certainly made an impression." Their conversation paused momentarily as the server arrived, gracefully setting down their plates filled with the enticing aroma of freshly prepared cuisine. Cral's eyes narrowed a fraction as she glanced past Rist, "Don't turn around now, but that guy's been staring this way since we sat down. He followed you in. Seems sort of suspicious, could be a stalker." Rist asked calmly, "Does he have long dark hair tied back into a ponytail, and a noticeable scar over one of his eyes?" "Yeah, that's the guy," Cral confirmed, looking a tad concerned. "That's Dath, Kelfin's chauffeur," Rist explained with a small smile. "Kelfin assigned him to keep an eye on me." Cral leaned in closer, lowering her voice to a confidential murmur. “So you don’t tell me sensitive information from Mor’s?” "He's a bodyguard," Rist said reassuringly. "His presence is merely a precaution to ensure that no one causes any trouble. Kelfin can be a bit overprotective at times." Cral sighed, shaking her head in disbelief and understanding. "Overprotective is putting it lightly. You never saw him with Marza. He wouldn’t let her further than arm’s length. You seldom saw one without the other. I wondered if he’d do the same to you. I’m glad he let you get away for lunch.” Her voice dropped again, this time laced with genuine concern. "He's still treating you well, isn't he?" Rist nodded, her reply filled with affection and appreciation for Kelfin's peculiar ways. "He is, truly. And I'm confident that won't change. Kelfin's been nothing but respectful and caring." "That's good to hear," Cral said, visibly relieved as she took a bite of her meal. "Just promise you'll stay true to yourself, no matter what the tabloids or society expects of you." “There is something I could use your help with though," Rist tentatively began. "What?" Cral inquired, her tone suggesting a mix of curiosity and caution. “You said Ghel wanted you to get information from me. If I gave you some information, would he find out something for me?” Rist ventured. Cral’s eyebrow rose, intrigued by Rist's proposal. “I don’t know. It would depend on what you want to know and what you have to give for it.” “It’s nothing overly sensitive and it wouldn’t go beyond Kelfin’s household,” Rist assured her sister, hoping to alleviate any concerns Cral might have. Cral considered the situation for a moment. “I can talk to him. He might be willing to help.” Rist breathed a sigh of relief. “Please don’t tell anyone but Ghel this and ask him not to spread it around,” she requested, emphasizing the need for discretion. “I can ask, but you know Tre is always after him for information,” Cral warned, aware of the constant pressure Ghel faced. “It’s for personal reasons,” Rist assured her, hoping to appeal to Cral's empathy. “I didn't manage to escape Marstat in time to beat the lottery. Kelfin sponsored me.” Her curiosity piqued. "Why? Why would someone sponsor a hairdresser to become an executive assistant? There have to be hundreds in the city who have experience." “Because I’m more than just his assistant. As you said, Kelfin never went anywhere without Marza. He has problems with crowds. Part of my job is to accompany him any time he goes anywhere and keep him from an anxiety attack. Most assistants aren’t willing to hold his hand when he needs it.” “How were you able to come to Marstat? Ghel still needs to obtain a permit for me to be in this area. But you couldn’t have been in Anore more than a month." "You're right, it's been roughly a month. The permit lists me as one of his caretakers. He’s terrible about eating and taking his medicine. He should have been off it months ago but he keeps having setbacks because he isn’t doing what he should." "You got plenty of experience dealing with Mom’s similar issues. You’re definitely the person who can make sure Kelfin stays on track." "I’m doing my best, but it's challenging." “What do you want me to ask Ghel?" Cral asked, eager to help with Rist's concerns. Rist replied, her voice filled with worry, "Is Ara's affiliated in some way with Tre's? I don’t even need to know how, just if there's a connection." Cral furrowed her brow and nodded. "I'll double-check with Ghel, but I think so. That's why Ghel came to us to get his hair done. Why do you need to know that?" Rist hesitated before explaining, "Because something strange is going on with my records. They did a background check on me at Mor’s and information is missing or wrong. They have an ex-hacker working to get everything straightened out. Tre’s is the one to facilitate the transfer. Several businesses tried to pad my debt, including Tre’s and Ara’s. I was lucky. Because of Kelfin’s anxiety, he sponsored me as I got off the ship. I don’t think I was at the intake for more than fifteen minutes. They sent the updated figure later. The intake called the next day trying to claim he owed more money. His accountant sorted through everything and most of the padding was illegal. They threaten to get Mor’s lawyers involved since he already signed a contract.” Cral nodded in agreement, "I'll talk to Ghel. He'll be able to delve into this matter effectively. You're in good hands." Rist returned the nod and smiled appreciatively, "Thank you so much for your help, Cral. I truly appreciate it. “Do you have any estimate of how long until you work off your debt?” Cral ventured. Rist pondered for a moment before responding. "About three years," she finally told her sister. Cral's eyebrows rose in surprise. "Three? Does Kelfin pay that well?" she asked, genuinely curious. Rist nodded confidently. "He does. Kelfin wants to retain his staff, so he goes out of his way to make us happy." Cral considered the idea. "Maybe your boss could talk to mine. I like working for Ghel, but I don't want to be indebted forever," she suggested. Rist raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Would Ghel even listen to such a request?" she countered, unsure of the likelihood. Cral sighed, acknowledging the truth in Rist's words. "Probably not," she conceded with a hint of disappointment. Rist then offered a potential solution. "Maybe you can find a way to earn extra income. Do you think Ghel would allow you to take up additional work as long as it doesn't interfere with your current job?" Cral paused to consider the suggestion. "I don't know. I'd have to figure out what I could do on the side," she admitted, realizing the challenge it might bring. Rist shrugged, understanding Cral's dilemma. "It was just a thought," she said, trying to be helpful. Cral smiled gratefully. "It was appreciated nonetheless," she assured her sister. "By the way, have you seen Dad?" Rist shook her head. "No, I haven't seen him since shortly after you became a transfer." Cral contemplated the idea of reuniting with their father. "Do you want to see him?" she asked, curious about Rist's feelings. Rist hesitated. "I don't think so. I'm supposed to be acting as a caretaker, so it's one thing for me to take a lunch break, but it's another to be roaming the city," she explained, her commitment to her role evident. Cral nodded understandingly. "That makes sense," she agreed. "Maybe he could have met us here," she began to say but was abruptly interrupted by reporters who had noticed their presence. Swarming reporters swooped in with their piercing questions. "You live with Ghel of Tre's. What can you tell us about what new things Tre's is working on?" one reporter inquired of Cral, eagerly. Cral's expression turned into a frown; she had little patience for this interruption. "No comment," she stated firmly, a verbal barrier erected against the probing media. "Is there any truth to the rumor they're going to close the Pegate division?" another reporter chimed in, persistent in the pursuit of a headline. "No comment. Please let us finish our lunch," Cral requested, maintaining her stance with a tone that brokered no argument, hoping to dispel the unwanted attention. A reporter's eyes then flitted to Rist, offering a mere glance before taking a keener interest. "You were at Sola’s the other day with Mr. Mor and Kelfin. Do you work for them?" The question was sharp, seeking to unravel ties that might not even exist. "No comment," Rist echoed, mirroring Cral’s approach to the intrusive queries that sought to penetrate their private lives. "You were with Kelfin at the gala in Marstat," another reporter asserted, assuming a connection. "Are you two lovers?" Rist’s frown deepened, shadows of annoyance playing across his face. "No comment. Please leave," she insisted, the edge in her voice suggesting that the end of her patience had been reached. “Why are you two together if you're competition?" inquired another curious reporter. "Could one of you possibly be a spy?" a voice chimed in from the back, tinged with a mixture of skepticism and intrigue. "Is it possible that Tre’s corporation and Mor’s enterprise are considering a merger?" Another reporter speculated, their voice rising above the murmuring of the gathered crowd. "No comment," Rist and Cral responded simultaneously, their voices harmonizing. As the speculation continued to bubble around them, one keen reporter, eager to capture the moment, whipped out a camera. However, Rist swiftly raised her hand, palm facing outward. "No pictures, please," she asserted firmly. "Come on, this is big news," the reporter protested, undeterred by her request. He tried to pull Rist’s hand away. Dath, who had been observing the situation closely, intervened. With precise movements, he seized the man's wrist. "She said no photographs," Dath stated unequivocally, his gaze fixed on the reporter. "Both women have asked you to respect their privacy. I strongly suggest you heed their request." "We are just doing our job," the reporter countered with a hint of frustration, deftly sliding his wrist out of Dath's firm grip. His determination was clear: "The public has a right to be informed about the events unfolding before us." "The public is well informed already," Dath argued, firm but collected, as he faced off with the persistent journalist. "They have made it clear: neither has any more to offer on this matter." Despite their protestations, several other reporters had begun to take photographs, their cameras clicking and flashing, hoping to capture any telling expression or gesture. Rist continued her attempts to shield her face. Observing her discomfort, Dath gave her his glasses. Rist accepted them with a nod of gratitude. She’d seen how they blocked photographs. Incensed by his presence, the reporter aggressively shoved Dath aside. "Get out of here you bum," he barked, then turned his attention to Rist, grabbing her glasses with ill intent. "Leave her alone," Dath demanded as he intervened, seizing the reporter firmly by the arm and pulling him away from Rist with protective urgency. His actions, however, were met with violence as the reporter swiftly turned around and delivered a punch to Dath. Refusing to be intimidated, Dath retaliated with a punch of his own, standing his ground. The scuffle between the two men escalated quickly, drawing the attention of the surrounding reporters. Yet, instead of intervening, they maintained their distance, greedily documenting the altercation with their cameras, some snapping photos while others might have been capturing video footage. The reporter, fueled by the escalating tension, attempted another swing at Dath. Displaying surprising agility, Dath nimbly dodged the incoming blow, ducking just in time to avoid contact. At this moment, the escalating commotion drew the attention of law enforcement. With swift efficiency, police officers arrived at the scene and deployed their tasers, striking both Dath and the reporter with the incapacitating electric charge. The sudden jolt caused Dath to cry out in pain, covering his eye. Rist reacted immediately, concern etched on her face as she leaped to her feet. "Dath…" she exclaimed, only to be restrained by Cral who had grabbed her arm to keep the situation from worsening. "He has a prosthetic," Rist shouted toward the officers, fearing for Dath's well-being and what the jolt from the taser might do to the eye. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, one of the officers gave a brief nod of comprehension. Without delay, he interacted with his arrest pad. A flicker of relief passed over Dath as he relaxed, despite being handcuffed. As Dath’s head bowed down, Rist saw his eye was turned off. As the commotion settled and the suspects were ushered away by two of the officers, another officer tasked with containing the gathering reporters strode off to manage the media frenzy. The remaining officer, who had previously acknowledged Rist approached them for questioning. "He has an electronic eye? Do you know what kind?" the officer inquired, the curiosity evident in his tone. Rist, taken aback by the sudden question, furrowed her brow as she tried to recall. "I'm not entirely sure," she admitted with a frown. "He mentioned it was state-of-the-art technology." Cral chimed in with a thoughtful deduction. "Considering his employment, it's likely a projection-based model from Mor's Enterprises," Cral suggested. "He's employed by Mor's closest associate, after all." Rist nodded in agreement, elaborating further for clarity. "He’s Kelfin’s driver and bodyguard. Kelfin asked him to keep an eye on me," Rist revealed, divulging the depth of the trust placed in Dath. The officer pieced the information together, a new question forming. "You're with Mor's as well?" he asked, his gaze fixed intently on Rist. “Yes, I am. I serve as Kelfin's assistant," Rist confirmed, her role placing her intimately within the inner workings of Mor's expansive enterprise. “That explains the presence of all the reporters outside. Can you please tell me exactly what transpired here?” The police officer asked as he settled down, ready to record their statements. The sisters proceeded to recount the sequence of events in detail. With a stylus poised over his arrest pad, the officer meticulously documented each aspect of their narrative, ensuring that he captured all the pertinent information for his report. “Given the circumstances, do you think it's possible Dath might have used his cybernetic eye to capture footage of what transpired?” He inquired, looking up from his notes with a keen interest. “Most likely,” Rist confirmed with a nod. “Dath always had a penchant for recording things, especially in tense situations. He would have wanted to document everything.” “I’m quite certain he was recording the entire encounter,” Cral interjected assertively. “I’m employed by Ghel at Tre’s. Rist and I are sisters so neither of our bosses wants to keep us apart. I would expect that Dath was keeping a close watch on me the whole time." She paused for a moment, her expression thoughtful. “That is, assuming you didn’t damage it” The officer arched an eyebrow, his previous frown deepening. “The eye should be protected, but I’ve never seen anyone react like that. Do you know if he has any problems with it?” “He just went in for a routine maintenance check-up the other day,” Rist offered. “According to him, everything was functioning perfectly at that point.” Absorbing their responses, the officer gave a single nod of satisfaction. “We'll make sure a doctor examines him promptly, and if necessary, we’ll retrieve data from his eye for the investigation. Additionally, we’ll reach out to Mor's for more technical insights about the cybernetic eye. “Thank you both for your cooperation. The information you’ve provided is incredibly helpful. If your employer needs updates regarding Dath’s arrest and any subsequent trial proceedings, they can contact us using the details on this card.” He handed Rist a business card bearing the precinct's contact information before collecting his notes and preparing to leave the scene. Rist heaved a sigh, wondering what to do. Cral, eyebrows raised in mild curiosity, posed the next logical question. "Dath drove you here. Do you know how to drive yet?" A subtle shake of her head was Rist's response, her expression tinged with frustration. "He's been working with me, but I'm not very good. I don't have a license yet," she admitted, the admission hanging in the air like a confession of a minor failing. Cral, quick to offer a solution, nodded understandingly. "I'll give you a ride. Call Kelfin from the auto so he can get a lawyer right away," she suggested, thinking ahead to the potential legal complications that might arise. Rist's face brightened slightly with gratitude. "Thanks," she said, the single word conveying a wealth of thanks for Cral's kindness. The situation, however, was still delicately poised. Kelfin, ever the strategist, suggested that Rist should avoid the gaggle of reporters growing restless for a story. He advised her to make her way to the main office rather than having the reporters follow her to the house. Upon arrival, Shor was already waiting for her with a plan. With a reassuring nod, he escorted her out through a lesser-known exit at the back of the building. This clandestine route was meant to connect Rist safely with the others, far from the possibility of any reporter's pursuit.