As promised, Dath escorted them into Mor’s corporate building. The company had its own security, eliminating the need for Dath to accompany them further. He’d be back to pick them up around lunch unless he was called earlier. Kelfin, exuding the quiet confidence of his role, led Rist, to the bustling security desk that controlled access to the inner sanctum of the sprawling complex to retrieve her official identification. “I need Rist’s ID,” he stated plainly to the officer on duty. The guard, recognizing Kelfin instantly, greeted him with a nod. “Welcome back, Sir.” He extended a visitor’s badge toward Kelfin in response. However, Kelfin corrected him swiftly, “No, Rist is my new assistant. She needs an employee badge, not just temporary access.” A sense of urgency underscored his words; Rist was to be a permanent fixture at his side. The guard's expression shifted to one of puzzlement. “I don’t have any new employee badges.” He scanned the cluttered surface of the desk and the drawers below it, hoping to locate the requested item. “I sent in the paperwork two weeks ago, it included a comprehensive background check,” Kelfin reminded the officer, his tone shaded with impatience. “I’m sorry, sir. I can’t seem to find anything.” The guard’s fingers tapped across the keyboard as he checked the computer system for any digital trace of the request or Rist’s record. “There’s nothing here either—no indication of the paperwork. Are you sure it was sent?” Kelfin’s response came firmly, bolstered by centuries of experience. “I’ve been the head of HR for over 400 years. I know what I’m doing.” “Yes, sir,” the guard responded meekly, though the problem remained unresolved. At that moment, Mr. Mor made eye contact from across the room and motioned for Kelfin to join him urgently. Kelfin gestured that he would join Mr. Mor shortly. That was going to piss him off, but Kelfin was resolute. Rist needed clearance beyond that of a visitor, requiring unrestricted access to off-limits areas. In a last-ditch effort to expedite the process, Kelfin instructed the guard, “Check the mail for the paperwork.” The guard complied, though he seemed less than optimistic. “I am. I don’t see anything. Until we find any record, I’m not sure what we can do,” he admitted, a strand of uncertainty weaving through his words. Kelfin, however, was not one to yield to uncertainty; he would ensure that Rist acquired the credentials necessary for her new role, one way or another. “What’s going on?” Yol demanded, his voice brimming with authority and irritation as he confronted the situation unfolding before him. “Sorry, sir, I’m trying to get Rist’s ID badge but security doesn’t have it,” Kelfin explained, gesturing to the guard. The guard shuffled various papers, evidencing his attempt to sort out the confusion. “You sent that in weeks ago,” Yol said with a frown, knowing that such delays were unacceptable, especially for essential personnel. “I did,” Kelfin affirmed with a nod, confirming that the request had been submitted well within the required timeframe to avoid any such trouble. Yol turned to the guard with an expectant look. “I want an ID badge for her by the end of the day,” he ordered, stressing the urgency of the situation. “What about the background check?” The guard asked hesitantly, knowing the importance of protocol but also recognizing the firm resolve on Yol’s face. “Kelfin’s staff did one that was most likely more in-depth than yours,” Yol retorted, implying that his personal security measures were far more stringent than the standard procedure followed by the facility’s security. “Get her a badge. Do the check. If you find something, we can revoke it,” Yol said with finality, unwilling to compromise on the necessity of Rist having immediate access to the facility. “And give me a visitor’s badge and a marker,” he added, taking the initiative to provide an immediate provisional solution. The guard, complying with Yol’s directive, quickly handed over the requested items. With swift strokes, Yol wrote down Rist’s name and the necessary security clearance on the blank visitor’s badge and signed it. His signature was a guarantee of the badge’s legitimacy, albeit a temporary one. “When you give her the proper badge, she’ll return this. Destroy it immediately,” Yol instructed, making sure that there would be no security breaches or misuse of the makeshift badge. “Yes, sir,” the guard responded, having received clear and precise instructions. “And I want to know what happened to the original request,” Yol added before turning to leave, not wanting similar complications to arise in the future. It was important to understand the lapse in process to prevent recurrence. The guard nodded, somewhat relieved to have clear instructions but also aware of the gravity of the administrative error. “Yes, sir,” he repeated, acknowledging both the reprimand and the responsibility to rectify the issue. “Come," beckoned Yol, turning on his heel and striding ahead with a decided air. Behind him, Kelfin and Rist promptly fell into step, moving with purpose to keep pace with Yol’s brisk walk through the office. "Sir, I’m sorry. I did send in the request," Kelfin assured him, his voice a mixture of earnestness and a slight tension, reflecting his concern for any misstep in his duties. Yol glanced over his shoulder, offering Kelfin a brief nod of acknowledgment. "I know. We were talking at the time. Remember?" His tone was even, not betraying the annoyance that radiated under the surface. Kelfin allowed himself a small nod, "We were. What did you need me for?" " Kessa is gearing up to begin the annual performance reviews," explained Yol with a tilt of his head towards the figure rapidly approaching them. "When can you join him?" Yol's question was punctuated by the arrival of Kessa, who fell into step with the group. His nod served as a silent greeting. "Next week," Kelfin said, after a moment's consideration. "I can accommodate no more than 4 reviews each day." Kessa seemed agreeable with the arrangement, his nod this time bearing an essence of satisfaction. "And what about the new hires? There have been 14 recently. I was thinking we could frame their evaluations as new hire reviews to make sure they don’t need anything." Navigating through the bustling workplace, the trio made for the elevators, as Mr. Mor dipped away towards the security office, likely with the intention of discussing matters with the chief of security. Kelfin's face brightened into a smile at Kessa's suggestion. "Perfect. Let's start these evaluations tomorrow. For this week, we can begin with two a day. I'm scheduled for half days only," he noted, sharing his availability. "Next week, we'll scale back to one per day, after the annual reviews." As they continued their discourse, Kelfin's mind then ventured to another area of concern. "Did we get any children in the compacts?" Kessa, now standing by the call button to summon the elevator, responded promptly. "Yes, we have 2 groups. One of which is still undergoing psionic testing. I'll notify the supervisor that you're planning to visit." With their agenda for the day taking shape amid their conversation, the elevator doors opened with a soft chime. “Thank you," he said. "This is my new assistant, Rist. Kessa serves as one of the senior assistant supervisors within the human resources department. His counterpart is Shor. They both report directly to me and know what I do." He paused briefly, expertly swiping his badge over the security lock before pressing his thumb against it to verify his identity and unlock the door. "Rist will be working closely alongside me as well." "Good to hear. You certainly need the help," Kessa responded. "What happened to her badge?" "I wish I knew. There seems to have been a slip-up with security. They're insisting that I never submitted the necessary request for Rist's badge." "Are you sure? You’ve had a rough time." Kessa’s question was raised with a hint of concern underlying the curiosity. "I'm positive. Even Mr. Mor was aware that I had submitted the request," he replied with certainty. "Are you sure you sent it to the right department?" Kessa pressed further. Without hesitation, Rist confidently recited the address for the submission. Kessa's eyebrows arched in mild surprise. “That’s the right place. Impressive. You might get caught up for a change.” Kelfin's laugh was a mix of mirth and resignation. “I’d need 20 assistants for that.” "Or, you could aim to stay healthy. Shor and I have managed to handle a great deal of your workload, except reading people." "Thanks," he expressed his gratitude once more. Kessa's gaze held a mixture of concern and relief. "We know you've had it rough. Do you even remember me visiting you in the hospital?" He asked. Kelfin, looking up at Kessa with a hint of surprise etching his features, shook his head slightly. "No. I'm sorry. They drugged me until I was stable enough to isolate. Most of that time is a blur," he admitted, his voice carrying the weight of the frustration and confusion he had experienced. Harnessing a deep breath, Kessa nodded understandingly. "You were in bad shape," he said softly, turning his attention to Rist. "Make sure he eats and sleeps." Rist smiled reassuringly in response. "I have been, and I will continue," she promised, her commitment to Kelfin's recovery evident in her resolute tone. Kessa's nod was one of approbation as he said, "Good. And good luck." His words carried a significant import, both a wish for Kelfin's continued restoration and for the challenges they all were facing. "Once I get Rist settled, I’ll check on the kids in psionics and then in compacts," Kelfin outlined his plan, showing his commitment to his responsibilities despite his recent hardships. Rist gently cut in, adding, “After that, we’ll see how he feels,” her tone carrying a hint of sternness. “He might not make it until lunch,” she suggested, her eyes sparkling with genuine concern for Kelfin's well-being. "So, she’s also keeping an eye on you," Kessa teased, chuckling at the dynamic between Kelfin and Rist. Rist gave a firm nod, "Someone needs to," she pointed out matter-of-factly, her gaze never leaving Kelfin. She was the unyielding pillar of support he needed, ready to step in whenever the remnants of his ordeal threatened to overwhelm him. “Shor's out this morning handling the intricacies of the Sola acquisition," Kessa informed them. "I'll start coordinating the performance reviews. We also need to plan for a site visit next week so that everyone can familiarize themselves with the new facilities. Once we've integrated their operations with ours, we'll undertake a thorough evaluation of their processes as well." Kelfin rubbed his chin thoughtfully and responded, "Let's delay the reviews for the Sola team until next month. I anticipate that the annual performance evaluations for our current staff will consume a considerable amount of time, and I want to ensure we concentrate on the ones that require immediate attention." He paused, giving the matter further consideration before continuing, "As for the tour, if it hasn't been scheduled yet, I'd prefer it towards the end of next week. I doubt my caretakers will sanction any travel before then." As he spoke, he made a subtle gesture towards Rist. Rist simply replied with a knowing look, "I'll entrust those arrangements to the others." Kessa chuckled and nodded in agreement. "That should work, but I’ll check with Mr. Mor. I’ll let you know and give you a schedule." With a final nod to Rist and Kelfin, Kessa took his leave to set the plans in motion Rist started to close the door behind him and frowned, confused by its weight. It seemed much heavier than a standard office door. “It’s insulated,” Kelfin explained, noticing the look of confusion crossing Rist's face. “This office, along with mine, is designed with water-filled walls that surround us, serving as a barrier to block emotions.” “So it gives you a respite from the outside world,” Rist commented, understanding the necessity for Kelfin. Kelfin only nodded in response. “If only I could remain in here all day long. But on to business, this is your office. My own office is right through there.” He gestured towards an adjoining door that connected their offices. Rist looked around, still processing this new environment. “But if my role isn’t actually as an assistant, why do I need an office?” she asked, curiosity lacing her tone. Kelfin replied matter-of-factly, “It’s all part of maintaining appearances.” Rist, showing initiative, pushed on. “ I intend to assist you. Someone in your position would benefit from the support. Why don’t you send me a list of recent hires? I can coordinate with their respective managers to organize their performance evaluations.” “Once we return from the tour, I'll provide you with all the necessary information,” Kelfin said. However, Rist had other ideas. “Do this first. I can see the stress is already beginning to affect you. Take a seat, just for a moment. Send me the hire list now. While you’re checking your messages, I'll arrange a couple of meetings for tomorrow. Then, we can check on the children. Small steps back. If you want to get off your meds, you need to do things right.” Kelfin’s expression soured. “You’ve been spending too much time with Satil,” he suggested with a look of disapproval. Rist met his gaze, unphased. “Are we wrong?” she challenged, hinting at a deeper understanding of Kelfin's struggles and the road ahead. Kelfin turned on his heel and briskly walked to his office, an air of solemnity following him. Inside, he connected his sleek tablet to the interface of his desktop computer. With a few precise taps on the glass screen, he accomplished his task: the detailed list of new hires was transmitted to Rist, ensuring she was up-to-date with the latest information. His brow furrowed as he attended to his inbox, sifting through an accumulation of messages with focused attentiveness. Rist had a point; he couldn’t push himself too much. Yet, on the flip side, Kelfin recognized he could not shirk his duties. He did have to check on the children. He sent a message to Satil to have him start the paperwork for a travel permit for Rist. Sola’s headquarters was in Marstat. As an indebted, Rist wasn’t supposed to go back there. It was to keep transfers from sneaking back. Usually, a permit could be applied for if an indebted needed to travel for work or medical reasons. But since she’d have only been in Anore a month, they might not grant it. They needed time to contest a denial. As Kelfin contemplated the intricacies of their situation, a soft rapping interrupted his thoughts. Rist's presence filled the doorway. Her hand delicately grasped a teacup, a small gesture of normalcy amid their professional complexities. With companionable ease, she steered into the room, placing the warm tea upon his cluttered desk. Then, from the small confines of her pocket, she drew forth a small bottle of pills, placing them beside the cup. Kelfin's eyes darted to the container, his expression clouding momentarily with a familiar frown. “Are they that bad?” Rist asked, concerned. “They make me feel off like I’m going to lose control over my emotions at any time, like when I’m drunk,” Kelfin explained. He took the pills. “That's why you didn't drink at the gala?" Rist guessed, eyeing Kelfin curiously. Kelfin nodded, a hint of discomfort visible on his face. "I can't handle it. The emotions all hit me with no filter." Rist considered this momentarily before asking, "You never said if I shouldn't drink." Kelfin's expression softened, "At the parties, I'd rather you stayed sober. It's easier to manage situations when we're both clear-headed. If you're off the clock, you can indulge, but I'd prefer it to be away from the house." "Fair enough," Rist acknowledged. "However, a glass or two of champagne at the galas should be fine,” Kelfin assured her. "Are there a lot of galas that we would need to attend?" Rist inquired, trying to gauge how often such occasions would arise. "Fortunately, no," Kelfin replied, his voice carrying an edge of relief. "They're not a frequent occurrence, which is something I'm glad for." "Are you ready to check the kids?" Heaving a sigh that seemed to carry the weight of the world, Kelfin answered, "I guess I have to. This won't be pleasant." The word seemed to hang in the air for a moment before he led the way to the psionics testing department, his steps measured and heavy with apprehension. *** The guards stationed frowned at Rist’s badge. However, after seeing Yol Mor’s signature on it, their frowns gave way to reluctant acceptance, allowing her access without further hesitation. As Rist and Kelfin passed beyond the threshold, Kelfin was enveloped by the familiar disarray that characterized the department. The air was thick with the sterile tang of medicine and disinfectant, a scent inextricably linked with care yet carrying an undercurrent of unease. To the untrained eye, the scene before them would seem chaotic—a hive of ceaseless activity where harried professionals scurried from one test to the next, their emotions as palpable as the noise in the buzzing space. Yet, Kelfin, with his wealth of experience, knew better. Beneath the apparent disorder lay a strict regimen of precision, each movement part of a carefully choreographed dance to most efficiently discover and help the psionics. This environment, with its tumult of sensations and frantic pace, unfailingly resurrected memories from Kelfin's distant past. It was a haunting reminder of the grueling tests he had endured half a millennium ago. Despite the vast expanse of time that had elapsed, those days haunted him as if they had persisted into the present, their spectral fingers etching discomfort into his very soul. His reverie was abruptly shattered by a familiar voice calling out from the controlled bedlam. “Kelfin,” the man addressed him, his tone laden with a casual camaraderie that came from long association. Upon turning, Kelfin's features softened in recognition. “Doctor Mesk,” he replied, with the acknowledging nod of an old acquaintance. “Welcome back,” Doctor Mesk greeted, his voice bearing the warm timbre of genuine hospitality. “Thanks. This is my new assistant, Rist,” Kelfin introduced, signaling to her. Doctor Mesk extended his hand, his movements betraying none of the haste that marked his professional duties. He shook her hand firmly but warmly. “It’s good to meet you,” he said, with an amiable smile. Rist reciprocated the handshake with an equal measure of respect and composure. “It’s good to meet you too,” she replied, her voice steady despite the overwhelming newness of the environment. "We're here to check on the kids," Kelfin explained. Doctor Mesk gave Kelfin an update. "We've had two groups come in while you were gone. The first is up in compacts. Nothing to note with them. No psionics. We're only about halfway done with the second group," he informed Kelfin, flipping through the data on his tablet. Kelfin's gaze lingered on the second group as he asked, "Anything of note for the new group?" Mesk shrugged. "There are a couple who might have potential. But it's too early to tell. We often get false positives this early in the tests." "The precog?" Kelfin inquired, referring to one of the more elusive and sought-after abilities. "Inconclusive. I think she is, but it's weak and unreliable," Mesk replied, furrowing his brow slightly as he considered the results he'd seen thus far. "Any problems?" "Just one," Mesk said, his voice taking on a softer tone. "A little girl. She's younger than what we normally get, but she was with her brother. They refused to be separated at the transfer camp and started screaming. The camp worker decided he didn't get paid enough for that aggravation and sent her along as well. Shor, who was on duty, didn't have the heart to separate them after witnessing their distress." Kelfin's expression grew somber. "How young is she?" "Seven," Mesk replied with a slight, almost imperceptible shake of his head. A frown creased Kelfin's features as he was reminded of his own past. "I was seven when I was left at the camp." "Yes, and look how you struggled. And testing you was almost impossible." Mesk's tone was not unkind, but it held a note of stern pragmatism. Kelfin felt a twinge of old resentment. "I didn't know what was going on. The doctors had terrible bedside manners." "You didn't do a lot better when we talked to you," Mesk countered, with a hint of a challenge in his voice. "Maybe having someone not in a lab coat might help put her at ease," Rist suggested, looking contemplatively across the room. Kelfin winced at the mere thought. Children were worse at controlling their emotions. The idea of him trying to talk calmly to someone projecting anger made his head swim, especially on his first day back. "Why don't you be the one to speak with her, Rist?" Mesk suggested. “I need to draw Kelfin’s blood.” A sudden look of surprise crossed Kelfin's face. "You do?" he asked quizzically, addressing Mesk directly. With a nod, Mesk ushered Rist towards the children and then beckoned for Kelfin to follow him to a designated area for bloodwork. "It's not actually for me," he clarified. "Dr. Heth requested it. Since he assumed you'd be stopping by here today, he thought it would be more efficient for me to collect the sample. This way, it saves you a trip to his office. He's hoping to determine whether or not you're well enough to discontinue your medication at the end of the month." Understanding dawned on Kelfin, and he gave a resigned nod. "What about stopping my medication now?" he asked half-seriously, with a touch of hopeful weariness. "No, you should keep taking your medication as prescribed," Mesk advised with a tone that brooked no argument. "I haven't even drawn your blood yet, let alone had it analyzed by Dr. Heth." With acquiescence, Kelfin extended his arm towards Mesk, who was well-prepared with the necessary equipment. He felt the brief pinch as Mesk deftly collected the required sample. Once the process was finished, Mesk reassured him, "I'll ensure this gets to Dr. Heth promptly so he can review the results. Depending on what he finds, he'll let you know if an in-person consultation is necessary." "Thanks," Kelfin responded, a mix of appreciation and apprehension in his voice as he secured a small bandage over the site. A sudden spike of anger and then fear hit and Kelfin spun around. Another child had attacked Rist with scissors. She’d caught the child’s wrist before any damage was done. Other lab workers were now restraining the child. "I thought you said the brother and sister were the only problems," Kelfin's voice carried a mix of concern and irritation as the furrow in his brow deepened. "I need my assistant in one piece." Mesk, unflustered, replied, "This is new. We’ll figure out the problem," his confidence doing little to assuage Kelfin's immediate worries. Together, they proceeded toward the site of the commotion. Kelfin immediately went to check on Rist. His voice softened considerably as he asked, "Are you okay?" Rist managed a nod despite her obvious distress. She took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she endeavored to regain her composure. "He didn’t get me, thank goodness. I don't know what set him off. I was just talking with these two," she motioned towards the brother and sister, "and out of nowhere, he lunged at us." The brother and sister, still reeling from the incident, were fixated on the subdued attacker with expressions of utter shock etched on their young faces. Sensing their fear, Kelfin sought to reassure them. He leaned casually on the edge of a nearby lab table to appear relaxed and in control, his hands firmly gripping the table's surface. “It’s okay," he told them soothingly, a comforting smile on his lips. "Sometimes the tests can be a little overwhelming. Outbursts like these, although rare, do happen. But there's no need to worry. The orderlies are well trained and more than capable of dealing with these situations. They’ll stop anyone before they hurt you.” With Kelfin's reassurance, the atmosphere in the lab began to settle as both the brother and sister seemed to take solace in his words, their tension visibly easing. Kelfin knew that confidence and a sense of safety were crucial in the stressful environment. “Why do we have to take tests?" the girl asked with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Kelfin answered with a patient but deliberate tone. "It's to help us understand you better," he explained. "Sometimes children have abilities they aren't aware of. If we find them, we can help you learn to use them." "Like what?" the boy chimed in, his interest piqued. "Have you ever heard of psionics?" Kelfin asked, arching an eyebrow. The boy rolled his eyes in response, a gesture that conveyed a touch of teenage skepticism. "Everyone's heard of that," he said dismissively. "Well, that's exactly what these tests are for—to determine if any of you possess such talents," Kelfin elaborated. "But what if we don't have psionics?" The girl asked, her voice tinged with worry. "If it turns out that you don't have psionic abilities, they'll find another role for you, something suited to your strengths," he reassured her. "Typically, that would mean assigning you to work in the compacts. Mor's takes its commitments very seriously. When we transport a group of children we become responsible for their well-being and their futures." He paused, sensing the underlying concern behind their questions, then added with a hint of warmth, "I'll have a word with the manager to ensure that you two are allowed to work together. You won't have to go through this alone." His words were meant to comfort them in an unfamiliar place with unknown expectations. “Why help us? We're just orphans," the boy asked with a mix of suspicion and curiosity in his eyes. Kelfin looked down at the boy with a gentle smile. "Because I know what it's like to have to leave everything you know, to be sent halfway around the world to a strange place, and to go through these tough tests,” Kelfin assured him, reflecting on his own experiences. "Did Mor's sponsor you too?" The boy inquired, seeking common ground. With an understanding nod, Kelfin confirmed the boy's guess. "And I went through these tests and I worked in compacts," he admitted, his gaze drifting momentarily as he remembered his own past struggles. "Do you still work there?” The girl asked, her voice tinged with the faint hope that maybe they would find a friendly face in an otherwise uncertain future. "No, I’m too big now. The compacts need small fingers and small bodies," Kelfin responded with a chuckle, acknowledging that he had grown much since his time in the compacts. The boy pointed towards Rist standing beside Kelfin. "What about her?" he asked, wondering if she might be someone who could relate to them more directly. "No, she's my assistant," Kelfin answered, his tone one of pride. He gestured towards Rist, who stood by patiently. "She helps me keep my responsibilities straight," he said, offering the children a glimpse into his world of adult duties and the support systems that keep them manageable. Kelfin straightened his posture, signaling a shift in the conversation. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go check on the compacts and make sure the children up there are okay," he explained. "And you need to finish your tests so you can get out of this lab," he ushered the children back to the task at hand. As they left the lab, Kelfin exhaled a heavy sigh. It was going to be a long day. Part 1. this chapter was too long to fit in one post