Rist made a point of telling the others about Kelfin’s meetings. In response to the news, Satil, Hurmis, and Corish took it upon themselves to put together a care package to ensure that Kelfin did not succumb to overwhelming stress. The package was a blend of a carefully curated assortment of soothing teas, an array of calming aromas, and a playlist of therapeutic music, all of which were selected with utmost precision to cater to Kelfin's emotional well-being and prevent any adverse reactions to stress. In Rist’s office, she set up the music playing softly and a diffuser with one of the oils. She had a pot of tea brewing when Akku arrived. Akku, upon her arrival, took immediate notice of Rist's company badge and showed her disapproval font with a frown. “I’m Akku. Noso told me Kelfin was expecting me,” she announced. “Nice to meet you. I’m Rist, Kelfin’s new assistant," she replied, introducing herself with a warm smile. She pointed to the seating set-up, inviting Akku to make herself comfortable. "Come in, Have a seat.” After Akku settled, Rist quietly excused herself, slipping away to inform Kelfin of her arrival. “She’s here,” she announced, discreetly entering Kelfin's office space. Upon hearing the news, Kelfin's face mirrored Akku’s earlier expression, a frown settling onto his features. “I was hoping she wouldn’t show and I could just write her up,” he confided in Rist. “Sorry,” Rist replied with an empathetic smile. “Convey my message to her that I will be ready in a bit," Kelfin made up his mind resolutely, mentally steeling himself for the meeting. Understanding the depth of Kelfin's words and his tone, Rist nodded in response. Back in her own office she relayed the message and went back to her own work. She wasn’t playing the role of a cordial hostess. A few moments later, the door to Kelfin's office creaked open. He paused at the threshold, his eyes scanning over Rist who was entrenched in her paperwork. The soothing music playing softly in the background and the calming scent of lavender wafted through the room. He sat at the table across from Akku. Rist, poised and ready with her digital tablet, promptly joined them for the meeting, prepared to record every detail of the conversation. "Good to see you again," Akku greeted Kelfin, breaking the silence that had settled in the room. "Thank you," Kelfin responded. He paused, and then queried, "So, how have things been progressing in the compact department?" "Things are moving along quite steadily. We're slightly behind schedule but I'm confident that we will be back on track soon," Akku reported. Kelfin looked sternly at Akku and voiced his concerns. "I am very well aware that you're falling behind. That is precisely why we are having this meeting. However, what I don't understand is why you're behind in the first place. The quantity of inventory orders hasn’t altered. There seem to be more children under your care than usual. You've even halted all the privileges. You won’t even grant them a simple liberty, like conversation." "That’s not…" Akku started to refute, her face turning pink with embarrassment. Kelfin silenced his with a raised hand. "I paid a visit down there just yesterday, and I saw the situation firsthand.” In a resolute tone, she contested the allegations, stating firmly, “If the kids said something like that, they're lying.” Her voice echoed in the silent room, a direct challenge to the informers. Remaining calm and composed, Kelfin retorted, "The children were too afraid to talk. As I said, I saw what was going on. And I’ve been going over your reports and all the records. It looks to me like you’ve been working the children from sun up to sun down with no breaks except for food. They don’t get time for play or exercise. They haven’t been going to assist other departments. There hasn’t been any schooling.” Defending her stance, Akku interjected, "They're behind." Enraged at her disregard for their welfare, Kelfin retorted heatedly, "Behind or not, these children's well-being is our responsibility. These growing children we've sworn to care for, need time to rest, nourishing food, and regular exercise. Our duty is to ensure their health and well-being, not exploit them. Do you want them to end up like I was last spring?” She refuted instantly, "No, but they won’t." “Do you know why Bril supported my proposed changes and why Yol continues to permit them?” Kelfin demanded. “Because when I was a transfer, I worked like you’re working the children now. When Bril took an interest in me, he noticed the adverse effects this grueling routine was having on me. He kept an eye on others in the compact and soon realized it wasn't just me, it was a widespread issue affecting many individuals. His mounting concern prompted him to approach me and assign me the task of finding a solution. “As soon as we manage to get through this heavy backlog of work, we promise to reinstate the privileges," Akku asserted, trying to keep her tone calm and authoritative. "No, we need to take action immediately. The privileges need to be reinstated right now," Kelfin retorted with an urgency in his voice that made it clear he wouldn't take no for an answer. "How do you expect them to achieve that?” Akku shot back, her tone laced with frustration. “You want them to work even longer hours than they already do?" At this point, Rist decided to wade into the conversation with a suggestion. "Perhaps you could consider discontinuing the external projects instead?" she recommended, gently nudging Kelfin’s leg with her own in an attempt to soothe his mounting frustration. Taken aback, Akku's eyebrows arched in surprise. “Excuse me?” Rist didn't flinch. “I said, perhaps it’s time to relinquish the external projects. You obviously have the children working on something more than compact orders.” Suddenly caught off-guard, Akku spun to face Kelfin, an incredulous expression on her face. “Kelfin, sir, this whole discussion is bordering on absurdity. Your assistant seems to have forgotten her place. She's overstepping her boundaries.” To Akku’s surprise, Kelfin defended Rist. “My executive assistant perfectly understands her role and she might be onto something. It’s the only logical reason to explain why the team's productivity has reduced, despite so many more work hours. “There will be an investigation and all staff involved will be required to reimburse the company for the children’s wages and the money will go to their debt.” "You can't do that," Akku protested, alarmed. Kelfin looked at her coldly, "Oh, can't I? You all have unlawfully taken advantage of company time. If you can't exactly give back the stolen time, then the justified means for repayment is monetary. The alternative is getting lawyers involved." Akku paled. Stealing the amount she did from a conglomerate was one of the most serious non-violent crimes you could commit. Involving children would put the punishment on par with murder. Kelfin couldn't help but start to fidget nervously. Akku's anxiety was starting to affect him as well. Noticing this, Rist stood from her seat and began to pour a cup of soothing tea for Kelfin. Akku's frowned as she watched Rist serve Kelfin, perhaps she felt such a task was beneath an executive assistant's role, or might be she was peeved because no tea was offered to her. Either way, Rist remained unperturbed. “Now, as I said, I want compacts caught up," he warned sternly. "And I want your extraneous work to end. Or I’ll get the lawyers involved. And if you take this out on the children for telling me, I’ll transfer you to Marstat before getting the lawyers involved." Rist glanced at him but said nothing. If he sent Akku to Marstat first before reporting her, she’d become an indebted. But with the seriousness of the crime she’d committed, rather than just being transferred somewhere to work off the debt, she’d be sent to work on one of the cargo ships making the long trek back to Earth. If she had a life chip, she could see a planet again. But Earth’s gravity and atmosphere were different. To live there, she’d have to undergo excruciating medical treatments to be able to live on the planet. And she’d never be allowed to step foot on Vabros again. “Now, go let your staff know. And put them to work helping until you’re caught up,” he ordered. With a compliant nod, Akku turned on his heels and took his leave promptly With a weary sigh, Kelfin drained the last remnants of his tea. He rubbed his temple and turned his gaze to Rist. “Pills,” he requested, extending a tired hand in her direction. Rist quirked an eyebrow, a glimpse of surprise flashing in her eyes. Nonetheless, she retrieved the small bottle of pills. A touch of concern laced her voice as she asked, “Do you also need a sedative?” Kelfin hesitated, battling the tempting lure of respite against his duties. “I’d appreciate one, but I need to maintain alertness for the report reviews. Is there more tea?” Without a word, Rist nodded, filling his cup with the aromatic concoction. Her voice held a tentative note as she asked, “Was I inappropriate during the meeting? Was I out of line pointing out their work outside of the company?” “No, Rist,” Kelfin reassured her, thankful for her outspokenness. “I greatly valued your viewpoint. Unless Yol is present, feel free to voice your opinion. He may not appreciate it as much as I do. But I am intrigued, Rist. How did you manage to uncover those insights? I spent the entirety of yesterday afternoon and late into the evening reviewing those complex reports.” Rist shrugged, her lips curling into a small mischievous smile. “I looked them over last night after you lay down. It seemed obvious to me.” Intrigued, Kelfin leaned in, curiosity sparked. He asked, “What did you do before you were a stylist?” “I was in school.” “Was it a vocational school?” Kelfin pressed. Rist shook her head. “No, it was a general teen academy. I couldn’t manage the hefty fees of vocational training, so I turned to the public aid job center. They placed me at Ara’s where I acquired firsthand training.” Kelfin nodded, impressed. “Well, you’re adjusting splendidly in this job, Rist." *** Seated comfortably in his antique wooden chair, Kelfin raised the delicate ceramic cup to his lips, gently blowing away the wafting steam before taking a thoughtful sip of his meticulously brewed tea. The flavor composition was like a soothing symphony to his senses. He felt a wave of tranquility from the essence of lavender gently infused into the brew, it was meant to induce relaxation, to calm his mind. The tea also carried a distinct note of sage, chosen specifically for its ability to heighten clarity and concentration. Mixed within this herbal ballet was lemon balm, a leafy green herb known to mitigate undesirable emotions and cleanse the mind of stress. Lastly, the crowning ingredient was passionflower, intended to combat anxiety and bring about peace of mind. Although the bouquet of flavors was initially unusual to his palate, over time he had cultivated a deep appreciation for this blend. Lost in his reverie, a sudden knock on his office door broke him out of his tranquil sipping, causing him to glance up at the elegant brass clock that adorned his office wall. The hands of time indicated a visitor earlier than he had anticipated. Was it his first appointment of the day, arriving earlier than expected? He had hoped for a few more quiet moments to relax and savor his unique herbal brew. He let out a light sigh of resignation before nodding to his assistant, Rist, signaling that the guest could be ushered in. Rist stepped aside to allow the guest entrance while simultaneously handing Kelfin the printed review that Kessa had completed. His eyes glanced over the document again. The man who entered, seemed anxious, probably fretting over the unknown purpose of his summons. He wondered why would the head of Human Resources want to see him. In an attempt to alleviate the palpable tension in the room, Kelfin forced a tranquil smile onto his face. His intention was to provide comfort to his jittery employee and to create a relaxed atmosphere conducive to conversation. “Good morning, and thank you for graciously making time to meet with me today," Kelfin beamed, brightening the office space with his warm presence. Taken aback, the man across him questioned tentatively, "Is there an issue I should be aware of, sir?" Kelfin quickly dismissed his apprehension, shaking his head reassuringly. “Not at all. Your foreman speaks highly of you. This is just a placement review. Working for a conglomeration is a bit different than working for a startup. I just wanted to make sure everything was going okay.” At this, the man visibly relaxed, a hint of a smile touching his lips. "I understand. Well, yes, my duties are not much different than those I used to perform at my previous job." Retaining his composed demeanor, Kelfin further queried, "In terms of resources, is there anything you need? Are you facing any difficulties in procuring the required tools?" The man shook his head, radiating an aura of satisfaction. “No. I have everything. Mr. Tsa is a great foreman. I’ve worked with some who weren’t so good. Mr. Tsa isn’t like that. I’m happy I made the change.” Intrigued, Kelfin questioned, "May I inquire as to why you chose to move on from your previous job?" he asked. "It was not due to a disagreement with a foreman, I presume?" The man shrugged, features softening as he thought. "It’s quite a commute to Pegate. I inherited a house here. It was nicer than the place I had there, and I own it, no rent. I wasn’t sure about working for a conglomerate. You hear stories. But I don’t see any of that here. And Mor’s has been around for centuries. You know it isn’t going to fold or get bought out.” “Indeed. I’ve been here for centuries myself," Kelfin concurred, his voice echoing the wisdom and experience of his tenure. "Have they presented you with our comprehensive benefits package yet?" His eyes, both bright and keen, studied the man's response with an intense curiosity. The man nodded, radiating a certain enthusiastic fervor. It was either a masterfully donned facade or he was genuinely engulfed in contentment stemming from his experiences here. Even with Kelfin's lengthy experience and empathic ability, any trace of deception or dissatisfaction in the man's demeanor remained undetectable. "I appreciate your time and company," Kelfin conveyed in conclusion, adopting a relaxed, yet authoritative tone. " If you need anything let us know." There was a subtle air of dismissal in the way he framed the words; a gentle, yet clear, indication that their meeting had reached its close. "Thank you." With gratitude evident in his voice, the man extended a sincere nod before taking his leave. Kelfin looked at Rist, his brow furrowing in deep thought. "What do you think?" Rist smiled, sensing the weight of Kelfin's emotions. "I think his enthusiasm got the better of you," she replied, her tone gentle yet direct. Kelfin's frown deepened as he considered Rist's words. "You think he was lying?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "No," Rist countered, shaking her head. "He seemed genuine. But I couldn't help but notice how quickly your emotions shifted. One moment, you were prepared to have Akku shipped off-world, and the next, you were all smiles. It's important for you to take some time to focus your emotions before the next interview. Otherwise, you might dismiss him without a word.” Kelfin thought back. She was right. He took a deep breath, his mind clear, and finished the tea in his teacup. With a focused determination, he made his way back to his office. Once inside, Kelfin stretched out on the couch, leaving the door open as a symbol of his vulnerability. "Do you want me to close the door?" Rist asked, her voice filled with concern. "No," Kelfin responded, his tone appreciative. "Unless you're planning a sudden outburst," he added with a small hint of humor, trying to lighten the mood. Rist chuckled softly. "Not on the agenda," she assured him. "Then I'm good," Kelfin said, grateful for Rist's understanding and support. With that, Kelfin closed his eyes and allowed himself the time he needed to process his emotions, ensuring that he would approach the next interview with a clearer and more balanced mindset. “Mor’s has thousands of employees, doesn’t it?” Rist asked curiously. “Yes, we do,” Kelfin confirmed. “If you are only going to review four people a day, how are you going to get through them all?” Rist pondered. “I won’t. I only review managers and higher positions. These individuals are more likely to have valuable information that could be used for corporate espionage. Besides, what can a person fitting o-rings in tubes or a call center fielding complaints reveal? I usually tour different departments and address any potential problems,” Kelfin explained. “What about employees in other provinces?” Rist pressed for more information. “Our managers often come here for retreats or training, and if I have any concerns, I make sure to visit our locations in other provinces. For example, when we go to Marstat to see Sola's, I will take the opportunity to visit our Mor's location there as well," Kelfin answered. The second review didn't go as smoothly as the first. The employee being reviewed was rude and uninterested in what Rist had to say. It seemed like he had other priorities and didn't care much about the job. However, there were no signs of any corporate espionage or concerning behavior. “Dath is waiting for us across the street at the coffee shop. He mentioned he'll be here by the time we get downstairs,” Rist informed Kelfin. “It's still early,” Kelfin protested. “You're ready to leave,” Rist replied, sensing Kelfin's eagerness. “I have things to do,” Kelfin insisted. She persisted in trying to dissuade him. “Things you can do from home, after lunch. You need a rest. I’ve already messaged Dath. Kelfin, You’re only leaving an hour early.” Kelfin frowned and stood his ground. “Are you walking home? Because Dath and I are leaving.” She reached for the door. A twist of anxiety coursed through Kelfin at the thought of being left alone. In a display of vulnerability, he reached out, gripping her arm tightly. "Please, don’t leave me alone." Her emotions softened at his rare display, tinged with a note of concern. "Then follow us. You need to unwind whether you realize it or not. I can see when someone is worn out; it’s etched all over your face. Tell me, have I ever pushed you into doing something unnecessary?" Though hesitant, Kelfin mustered a half-smile. "Until now, no. However, it hasn’t been that time since you started working with me. I’m not that bad." She paused leaving the door open a crack. “Is it 'not that bad' relative to a typical day, or is it 'not that bad' compared to your condition in the previous spring?" she asked, emphasizing his own earlier words. "Remember, you're the one who insisted that I assess this job based on how it compares to Ara's, rather than the circumstances surrounding our initial meeting. In the same vein, you have to evaluate your current state compared to the period when Marza was in her prime, not in contrast to the anguish you experienced when she passed away." “Marza and I had been together for decades. You’re not even old enough for us to have that kind of imprinting,” he pointed out. She nodded, her expression solemn. "Exactly. You’re forcing yourself to match the pace you were once capable of maintaining when Marza was by your side. She was always there to bolster your strength and spirit. I, however, am unable to provide you with those same comforts. It's a bond that we haven't yet forged. Therefore, it's crucial that you stop pushing, and start pacing yourself." Kelfin allowed a sigh to escape his weary body. He knew deep down, she was right. Had Marza been with him, she would have dragged him back home following that intense conversation with Akku. Rist, on the other hand, allowed him more autonomy concerning decisions, subtly retreating unless he was in dire need of guidance. Kelfin frowned as he sensed Zela's approach. It was clear that she was in a good mood, but there was also a touch of concern in her emotions. Rist had partially opened the office door, allowing her emotions to enter. Kelfin patiently waited for Zela to knock before entering. As soon as Zela stepped into the office, her previously cheerful expression shifted to worry. "Are you okay? Rist, message Dath and ask him to come pick you up," she said with genuine concern. Rist quickly reassured her, "We're just leaving." Zela nodded approvingly and turned her focus back to Kelfin. "Good. Kel, you don't want to end up in the hospital again. I know Mr. Mor relies on you, but you can't push yourself too hard." Kelfin sighed, his weariness apparent. "I had a handful of appointments today. They were draining. I'm going to head home and rest for a while. But before I go, what do you need?" Zela hesitated for a moment, contemplating her request. "I just need a signature. Kessa is out, and I haven't been able to locate Shor either." A flicker of annoyance crossed Kelfin's face. " Shor's dealing with Sola. Alright, what exactly do you need me to sign?" "Raise proposals," Zela replied, her expression suggesting a mix of urgency and impatience. "It's a hefty document, and you definitely don't want to deal with it right now. But we need your approval on it so that we can start working on the budget.” Kelfin understood the gravity of the task at hand. He grabbed his belongings without further delay and headed toward the elevator. " If you can’t find Kessa, send it to me. I'll go through it thoroughly at home and inform you of my decision. If I approve, you can start working on the budget, and the signed document will be ready for you in the morning." “You’re coming back tomorrow? You were in yesterday too,” Zela asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise. “I have to get caught up,” Kelfin explained, his voice tinged with exhaustion. “I’ll be in every day this week and next. I’ll only be working mornings this week. Next week, I’ll try to do full days, but I’m not sure.” Zela glanced at Kelfin with concern. “Kel, I know I was teasing you about working from home so much, but I know you have some problem that necessitates it. Don’t kill yourself for a job. You have enough money, you could quit today and never have to worry,” she said empathetically as the elevator began its descent. She was right, of course. Kelfin had carefully set aside enough money to sustain himself for many years of medical care once his chip failed. It wasn't financial security that drove him to push himself so hard; it was the desire to maintain his current lifestyle and ensure the well-being of his dedicated staff. Over time, he had formed genuine connections with each and every one of them. “Mr. Mor needs me,” he insisted, a note of unwavering loyalty in his voice. His loyalty to Yol would probably be his death. “Yeah, he does,” Zela agreed softly as the elevator slowed to a stop and she stepped out, leaving Kelfin deep in thought. They continued down in silence to the main floor, a familiar figure with a frown on his face appeared just inside the door. It was Dath, his irritation was evident. “I thought I was going to have to come up and drag you out,” Dath grumbled, his expression a mix of concern and exasperation. “I was just looking for my ID badge.” “We ran into Zela on the way down,” Kelfin explained, gesturing towards the now vacant elevator. “He didn’t want to leave,” Rist piped up. Dath’s frown grew with the news. “Boss, you can’t overdo it if you want to get off those meds,” Dath insisted as he opened the door for them. Kelfin sighed, feeling the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him. “I'm trying not to,” he assured them, determined to find a balance between his dedication to his work and taking care of himself. With Dath opening the door for them, the trio stepped out into the fresh air and made their way to the car. *** After lunch, Rist ensured that Kelfin was comfortably ensconced in the library, absorbed in his books, before seeking out Dath and Satil who were waiting outside in the driveway. Dath cut an imposing figure, dressed to the nines in his official uniform. Alongside the usual black pants and stark white shirt that had become his staple, he had elevated the ensemble by adding a crisp black jacket, a formal hat, and dapper driving gloves. Rist couldn't help but recognize this dress code; Dath historically reserved this attire for their drives to the office. “Do you know how to drive?” Dath broke the silence, his question making Rist blink in surprise. She shyly shook her head, her voice soft, “I’ve watched others do it, but we never had an auto.” "In that case, do me the honor of taking the front seat. I'd be more than happy to show you how," he gallantly replied. As he said this, he swung open the passenger door for her. She responded with a quizzically raised eyebrow before complying, a touch of curiosity in her voice as she remarked, “Kelfin once mentioned you despise sharing driver tasks.” A conspiratorial grin spread across Dath's face as he replied, “We let him think that because he’s a menace behind the wheel. He wouldn’t like me singling him out. And I do most of the driving.” With a dash of flair, he donned a pair of dark sunglasses. Satil intervened, further clarifying the situation, “All the staff knows how to drive in case there’s an emergency. And it’s a skill you can add to your resumé if you leave to find other employment.” Rist offered a disheartened reminder, “I can’t leave.” “That's only for a short time,” Satil assured her, introducing a glimmer of hope to the conversation. Dath spoke again, stressing his point with a half-smile. "Few of us ever want to quit," he confided, his gaze filled with a certain secret camaraderie shared among the team. "Kelly goes out of his way to create a comfortable and pleasant work environment, filling our days with more joy than stress. The only downside," he finished with a wry chuckle, "is having to play nursemaid to a five-hundred-year-old." Satil, always the voice of reason among them, nodded in agreement. “Kelly finds it easier to appease us rather than replace us,” he explained. “While you need to have the most control of your emotions, we all need to do it to some extent.” Dath demonstrated some of the basics of driving and explained the driving laws they had to obey in town. While Rist had deduced some of what was involved, Dath had explained nuances that she would have never guessed. As they arrived at their destination, Rist made to open the door, but Dath stopped her in time. Instead, he came around to her side of the car and opened the door for her. He then walked beside her, acting as a protective and respectful escort, with Satil closely following behind. Once inside, Rist was surprised, as she had expected Dath to leave, as he had been doing at Mor's house previously. However, this time he decided to stay. He found a strategic spot near the fitting rooms from where he could survey the entire store and took up his silent watch. Assertively, Satil introduced the newcomer, “This is Ms. Rist, the new executive assistant for the head of Human Resources at the esteemed Mor's Conglomerate. She’s here to refresh her wardrobe.” Deftly, he handed a neatly written list they had created the other day to the elegantly dressed saleswoman. With an air of professionalism, the saleswoman scanned the list in detail before giving an acknowledging nod, clearly content with the requirements. She gently reassured, “Please, make yourselves comfortable,” motioning them towards luxuriously upholstered chairs. In a hushed tone, she conversed with a pair of her colleagues. One promptly followed her towards the back of the shop, whereas the third prepared a set of tools and confidently advanced towards them. With an aura of practiced expertise, the male staff member knelt on the floor before Rist. “I'm going to take precise measurements of your feet. This will ensure we find the perfect fit for you,” he explained, slipping off her shoes with gentle dexterity. He then slid each delicate foot into a sleek, metallic device. Rist observed the entire process in sheer silence. She had never even laid eyes on one of these hi-tech measuring devices before. Then again, she had never had the chance to shop in such a grand, upscale store. The single time she had ventured into a similar establishment was back in her school days. She had been swept into the nearest building while on her way home since the police were pursuing a potentially deadly criminal in the vicinity. The staff of the store, clearly perturbed by the intrusion, had kept her near the entrance, distanced from the expensive merchandise. Her usual shopping experience involved the chaotic thrift stores or the jumbled deep discount shops in the city. Not only were these stores crowded and disorganized, but their lack of cleanliness also left Rist feeling grimy and in need of a shower after each visit. In stark contrast, this store exuded cleanliness and orderliness. Not a speck of dirt marred its pristine floors, and each rack of clothing was immaculately placed. Moreover, instead of the unpleasant odor of the unwashed masses, the scent of floral arrangements delicately wafted through the store, adding to the welcoming ambiance. Once the salesman had finished with the measurements, he disappeared towards the section dedicated to footwear. Following shortly, the saleswomen returned, their arms overflowing with a variety of clothes chosen with care. The items were presented on a nearby counter with a flourish, and the service began. As Rist and Satil sorted through the sea of fabrics and cuts, they exchanged thoughts on possible selections. Satil rapidly recognized Rist's innate fashion sense and her ability to select suitable business chic attire, stepping back to let her take charge of the selection process. After meticulously sorting through the vast sea of apparel that they had gathered, the helpful sales clerk deftly guided them toward the fitting rooms. Just as Rist was about to unceremoniously enter into the one that was graciously unlocked specifically for her, Dath's robust hand halted her. With a stern seriousness etched on his face, he scrutinized the room first before allowing her to enter. Rist observed inquisitively as his eye suddenly emanated with an unnatural glow. She found herself silently wondering just what he could be delving for that was cloaked from the view of natural eyes. Seemingly satisfied with his inspection, Dath nodded solemnly and graciously signaled for her to proceed. It was then that Rist's eyes flickered over his figure and her gaze inadvertently landed on the conspicuous weapon strapped to his side. Her heart skipped a beat as her eyes snapped back to meet his. His expression subtly morphing, his eyes held a warmth that seemed to confirm her discovery. He wasn't merely Kelfin’s bodyguard - he was serving as her protector as well. A realization that filled her with a sense of safety, but at the same time a flurry of unanswered questions. Guided by the attending saleswomen, she tried on the assortment of clothes, discovering both surprises and disappointments. Satil, along with the sales assistant, both chimed in with their candid opinions as the fitting assistant tirelessly retraced her steps, returning any unwanted items while simultaneously fetching new ones for Rist to try. Throughout the whirlwind process, the normally silent Dath remained true to form, only sparing her occasional glances. His lips barely moved to offer any commentary, contributing to the fabric of the day by his mere presence - large, silent, and undeniably protective. At one point, while Rist was changing, she heard a sudden commotion in the outer room. Alarmed, she quickly pulled on the first set of clothes she could grab and rushed towards the door of the dressing room. As she approached, she saw Dath positioned by the entrance, attempting to prevent a couple of people from entering. However, before she could catch a glimpse of what was happening, Satil stepped in and obstructed her view of the store. "Please, stay in there," Satil pleaded with a sense of urgency, gesturing towards the dressing room. "She wants to be left alone," Dath firmly expressed to the two individuals standing by the doorway. Confused and curious, Rist asked, "What's going on?" She tried to catch a glimpse over Satil's shoulder, hoping to understand the commotion. "Reporters," Satil responded tensely. "Please, Miss, go back into the dressing room and close the door." Slightly taken aback by the unexpected turn of events, Rist reluctantly retreated into the dressing room and closed the door behind her. With a mixture of disappointment and concern, she resumed trying on the clothes she had selected. Making a few decisions on her own while Dath continued to deal with the persistent reporters outside, Rist hoped for a swift resolution. After what felt like an eternity, the sounds of voices and footsteps eventually faded away. "All clear," Satil called out, giving Rist a sign that it was safe to emerge from the dressing room. Opening the door cautiously, Rist handed Satil and Dath a few items of clothing that didn't fit her properly. "Don't worry about the press," Dath reassured her with a determined expression. "We'll make sure to keep them away." Rist, intrigued by the authority and assuredness in Dath's voice, couldn't help but query further. "Are the press really that intrusive?" she gently challenged him, her facial features scrunched in innocent bewilderment. Dath, not missing a beat, candidly confirmed her suspicions. "At times, certainly," he conceded. "You'd be well-advised not to make yourself an easy target for them." His voice carried the prudent advice with the assurance of one with firsthand experience. Grateful for the tip-off, Rist wordlessly nodded in understanding. With this newfound awareness secure, she went back to the task at hand, methodically trying on the selection of clothes amidst the steady hum of activity. Once she had navigated her way through the mountain of clothing, the salesman eased out a handpicked selection of shoes, reflecting her chosen ensemble with precision. He casually asked, "From what I gather, you work for someone in HR, correct? Would that happen to be Kelfin, Shor, or perhaps, Kessa?" Rist promptly responded, "Kelfin." “If you worked with Kessa or Shor, you’d be on your feet all day so you wouldn’t want heels. But I don’t think you’ll have to worry with Kelfin. Rist, processing this newfound knowledge, selected pairs of shoes, deliberately avoiding the highest of heels. Yet, a gnawing worry nestled itself at the back of her mind. Every item she picked would further escalate her outstanding debt. Kelfin might have presented himself as a reasonable employer, but she wasn't eager to extend her tenure with him unnecessarily. Her inner dilemma lurked within her, its presence evident despite her attempts at nonchalance. Before departing, Dath had her put on his hat and sunglasses. He and Satil planked her. Their imposing figures acted like a shield, further obfuscating her from prying eyes, while members of the store staff busied themselves with the task of transporting her purchases. Just outside the store, two keen-eyed reporters had stationed themselves in anticipation. On spotting them, Dath instinctively positioned himself in front of her, intent on blocking their view of her. Displaying a veneer of authority, he dealt with them sternly, delivering a strict proclamation of her desire for privacy, “She doesn’t want any pictures.” Meanwhile, Rist ducked her head and raised her hand to further shield her visage from the relentless photographers. Without wasting any further time, the trio swiftly made a beeline for their waiting vehicle. Arm firm around her, Dath gallantly helped her into the safety of the back seat, closely followed by Satil. The auto's tinted windows shielded her from the prying eyes outside. Once the store staff and Dath had carefully arranged everything inside the voluminous trunk, he made his way to the driver's seat, slipping comfortably into his usual role. In the relative privacy of the car, Rist took off his borrowed hat and sunglasses, returning them to Dath. As they began to move and the scenery morphed around them, Dath attempted to lessen her apprehension. “It won’t always be like this. Kelly hasn’t been seen in public since he was taken away from Marza’s funeral in an ambulance. There was speculation that he was dead too. Now, six months later, he suddenly shows up at a Gala with a beautiful woman no one has ever seen. They all want more gossip. But it won’t be long before something more important draws their attention.” He pulled into a parking structure. “More shopping?" Rist asked, her voice palpable with concern about the mounting burden of her already staggering debt. "Hold on for a moment," Dath placated her, his tone soothing. Then turning to the attendant on duty, he explained, "Merely passing through, evading some nosy reporters." Comprehending the situation, the attendant gave Dath a nod of understanding and extended a valet parking slip towards him. With the tiny piece of paper in his hand, Dath clarified the scenario to Rist. "This parking structure is a privately owned section allocated specifically for Mor's medical development personnel. Unauthorized entry is strictly prohibited. The high-ranking executives of the company commonly use it to lose relentless paparazzi, making sure they don't follow them all the way home." A frown creased Rist's forehead, "But what if they managed to take pictures of me as we were making our exit? What if they recognize me from Marstat?” Dath was quick to assuage her fears. "Rest assured, they didn't manage to capture any images. The hat and glasses emit signals that interrupt the process of taking photos. This ensures that even if the reporters attempted to take pictures, all they would end up having would be blurry and unidentifiable images. Satil, attentive to the unease rippling, made the first observation. "I noticed a tinge of worry clouding your eyes when we mentioned further shopping,” he said. “Did we already exhaust your enthusiasm for it?” Next, it was Dath's turn to express his concern. Dath glanced over his shoulder at her. “Are you doing okay?” He asked, letting the question hang in the air, crisp and clear. Rist's reply was without much delay. “I’m fine,” she said, yet her voice lacked conviction, her words screamed of an unspoken uncertainty. She faced a conundrum now: how to express her concern without coming off as ungrateful. Satil, sensitive to her inner turmoil, tried to lighten her confusion with a compassionate smile. His gentle eyes softened further as he ventured a guess, "It's the huge amount of money we are spending, isn't it?" His voice carried an undertone of understanding. A slow, hesitant nod from Rist confirmed his guess. “Froll’s still working on your finances, isn’t he?” Dath asked. “You haven’t been paid yet, right?” Satil was quick to comfort her, leveling her concerns with warm assurances. “Don’t worry. You will receive your back pay. And until then, your spending allowance shall be cumulative,” he clarified with candid professionalism. “Remember that some of our purchases today count as necessary business expenses, as you often need to dress appropriately for different occasions. Your spending allowance for the time you’ve worked so far should cover most of what doesn’t fall under required. Follow Froll’s investment advice, and you’ll see the rest being paid off in a surprisingly short time.” Adding to the assurance, Dath leaped in with a slice of wisdom, borne from their collective experiences. “Hurmis is the only one that grew up with money,” He mused, a touch of melancholy in his words. “So you see, we understand what it feels like to need money.” The silent meaning in his words echoed through the room, reinforcing the bond of shared struggles. He eased his vehicle out of the concrete and steel confines of the city parking structure, looking around for the reporter. His hands deftly passed the parking slip to the uniformed attendant perched inside a claustrophobic little booth on the exit lane. He quipped lightly about foregoing driving lessons until they no longer had to be vigilant about lurking shadows. He evidently preferred not having the added distraction when he was at the wheel. “My parents made a decent living,” Satil told Rist. “But I was born deaf. It was a difficult reality for them to accept, but they were determined to give me the gift of sound. They borrowed a significant amount of money to afford a hearing chip for me. If we had lived in Marstat, we would have likely been considered transfers. It took them years of hard work and sacrifices to pay off everything.” Curiosity evident in his eyes, Rist asked, “Then how did you manage to afford a life chip?” A smile formed on Satil's face as he recalled the unexpected turn of events. He explained, “I won it, believe it or not. There was a raffle held as a fundraiser to help other children who couldn't afford hearing chips. It was a cause I felt deeply about, so I impulsively invested almost an entire week's paycheck on raffle tickets. As luck would have it, Tre's had generously donated a life chip, along with two hearing chips, to support the cause." Satil's eyes darkened as he continued, "And then, about a month after the life chip surgery, I unfortunately had an accident that caused the chips to malfunction. It was a terrifying ordeal, but Mor's stepped in to assist. They offered to replace the malfunctioning chips for me free of charge. It was part for publicity and part due to their desire to examine the old chips and ensure their own products wouldn't encounter the same issues. It was truly a fortunate turn of events, and I was more than happy to agree to their proposal." Rist furrowed her brow, saying with a hint of concern, “I understand they’re fierce competitors, yet I hope that they shared the critical information with Tre’s corporation and the other conglomerates.” Her apprehension echoed in her voice. With an understanding smile gracing his features, Dath glanced at her reflection in the rearview mirror of the hovercraft, conveying reassurance. “Indeed, they did share the knowledge,” Satil assured her. “Making this information widely available served their public image greatly. It’s a masterstroke. By giving away integral data to their business rivals, Mor's corporation managed to amass immense goodwill, especially since it was aimed at easing the prevailing hardship around." Satil further explained the legal intricacies tied to this seemingly generous act. “Of course, they were bound by law to share this information. Every time a considerable defect surfaces in a major medical device or a weaponry system, any subsequent fix or resolution is mandated by law for full disclosure. However, the general public often remains oblivious to this legal obligation, thus these conglomerates smartly stage this obligatory act as an instance of their generosity.” “Mor’s will occasionally do it for things that aren’t required to make it seem like it’s true benevolence,” Dath added. Turning the focus of their conversation to Dath, Rist probed, “What's your story, then?” She asked, “You mentioned you were a transfer too. What was your past like before the transfer?" With a sudden frown creasing his brows, Dath deflected her inquiry. “Let’s discuss that another time. We’re too close to home.” Satil stepped in to elaborate on Dath’s abrupt withdrawal, He needs time to get his emotions under control before we get close enough to Kelly that he can sense them.” With a remorseful note in his voice, Rist extended her apologies to Dath, "I’m sorry," she said. The sincerity in her expression was undeniable. Dath smiled warmly in response, saying, “It’s fine. You just found yourself living with a bunch of guys you don’t know. It makes sense you want to learn about us. Some other time, I’ll tell you. I have poked into all your records.” He then shifted his glance to Satil, and a mischievous grin spread across his face. Pulling himself upright, he said in an excited tone, "Did you know that in her third year of school, she managed to get her shoelace caught within a crevice on the playground slide? They actually had to call in maintenance to help free her." Rist looked startled at the revelation. “I did what? No, I did no such thing. And even if I did, there wouldn’t be a record of it!” Her voice was filled with incredulity. Satil chimed in with an amused tone, “He’s merely teasing,” he assured Rist, “When Dath needs to lighten the atmosphere, he fabricates these elaborate, outrageous stories and insists he discovered them in our records. Often, he even threatens to share these supposed stories with the general public.” Dath quickly interjected, “I wouldn’t do that with Rist’s records. They’re still a jumble. It’s going to take some time, but I will get them sorted,” he promised, and he fell into a contemplative silence. Rist was left hoping he wasn’t focusing on her files while he was driving. Satil spent the rest of the drive filling her in on each of the staff’s methods for helping reduce negative emotions so she would recognize them.