After being subjected to an intense and chaotic scenario, Dath was finally released from police custody. The decision came after the law enforcement reviewed video evidence provided by the other reporters. Unfortunately, the recording he’d made had been damaged by the tasing as was his eye. While the eye should have been protected from damage by such shocks, the technician who’d cleaned it hadn’t connected it properly. Though Dath was physically okay, the incident necessitated the replacement of his eye. The ordeal had garnered significant media attention as reporters who had witnessed the event in the diner uploaded their recordings to various news platforms. The coverage sparked an unprecedented level of media interest, resulting in a frenzy of reporters trailing the group's every movement. Consequently, Kelfin and Yol, along with Rist and Shor, found themselves forced to head back to Anore. They left behind Satil and Corish to accompany Dath while he underwent surgical procedures to address his new eye. Throughout their journey, Yol couldn't contain his persistent rant about the technician's negligence, contemplating the severity of the repercussions it could have caused. Eventually, the tension reached a tipping point, and Kelfin, overwhelmed by frustration, lashed out. To defuse the situation, Rist intervened, attempting to restore a sense of calm between the two. Simultaneously, Shor engaged in the effort to steer the conversation away from the recent events, to prevent further agitation until their arrival. Do you want us to take you to your auto?" Yol kindly offered. "No, we'll leave that for the others," Kelfin firmly decided. "Dath is going to be quite surly when he gets back. I don't want to antagonize him by driving. We'll arrange for a driver tonight and use the two-seater until they return." "I can give you a ride," Shor generously offered. Kelfin gratefully agreed. Being home and almost alone would be a relief. Upon arriving at the house, Rist expressed her need for a bath. Kelfin realized that he could use one too. He felt that it would cleanse not only his body but also his mind. With each in their respective tubs, her emotions would fade to a whisper. Settling into the warm embrace of the bathwater, Kelfin allowed the carefully erected shields around his mind to ease slightly. With a deliberate focus, he could pick up on a faint echo of Rist’s feelings. The rigors of their recent travels had undoubtedly taken their toll on her, but now, enveloped in the soothing heat, she was unwinding, her tension melting away to the point where sleep seemed a pleasant possibility. Kelfin appreciated the solitude of their remote location; left alone with his own emotions, he could immerse himself in introspection, untangling the complex web of his feelings—an opportunity that had eluded him for some time. After drying off and dressing, Kelfin stepped out to find Rist busily preparing dinner in the kitchen. “What are we making?” he inquired, curiosity piqued by the enticing aromas filling the room. “I found some chicken and vegetables that I’m going to roast,” Rist replied, glancing over her shoulder. “We can use some flatbread and have them as wraps.” Kelfin scratched his chin thoughtfully. “I’ve never had that before,” he confessed, “unless it was during my childhood, but my memories from that time are hazy at best.” His admission prompted a fleeting smile from Rist as she continued her kitchen work. “My mom used to make wraps often, especially when we had leftovers. Later, when she fell ill, her hands weren't as steady, and she found it difficult to handle utensils. Wraps became a go-to meal I'd prepare for her since they were easier for her to hold and eat.” Kelfin nodded, his interest genuine. “They sound intriguing. I’m eager to try them.” His anticipation was not borne from politeness alone. Kelfin’s appetite was often suppressed, a side effect of the medications he took and the herbal teas meant to help manage his condition. The relentless influx of emotions he usually had to endure didn't help matters either. But now, in this serene setting away from the crowd, with only Rist's muted feelings as company, he might find eating more agreeable. After a pause, Rist added, “If you enjoy them, I’ll pass the recipe to Corish. By the way, isn’t it about time you took your medication?” Kelfin frowned, mulling over her question. “I’ll take the pills after we eat. Just remind me, will you?” As if to ensure his adherence to the regimen, Rist stopped her preparations momentarily, retrieved the vial of pills, and set it down prominently on the table where Kelfin would be sitting. “This way, you won’t forget,” she said with a gentle firmness. A grateful smile spread across Kelfin’s face as he watched her—the gesture was small, but in the web of his thoughts and feelings, moments like these resonated profoundly. The homemade wraps had none of the culinary artistry that Corish often exhibited in her cooking, but still, they were undeniably delicious. In fact, Kelfin found himself consuming more than Rist, which was a surprise considering his usual modest appetite. This sparked an idea in him—he could suggest Rist share the recipes of her childhood with Corish. It was a thought worth considering, especially since after centuries a change of flavors could be a refreshing twist to his routine meals. "What shall we do tonight?" Rist inquired earnestly once their meal had concluded. "You're free to do what you want. As for myself, I have to continue following up on—" "Don't even think about mentioning work," Rist interjected with a firm tone. "Yol has explicitly forbidden you from work-related activities this evening. He insisted you need a rest after our recent travels. Furthermore, he's instructed me to contact him if you disregard this, and he assured me he'd lock you out of the system to ensure compliance." Kelfin couldn't hide his irritation as he met Rist's gaze. Was this a ploy of some sort? She seemed dead set on her mission, and he had no reason to doubt that she would follow through on her threats. Yol indeed had made similar interventions in the past. Bril had always emphasized the importance of dedication to work. While this had instilled a strong work ethic in him, it had come at the expense of his health. With a resigned sigh, he relented. Whether Rist was bluffing or not, her intentions were born out of concern for his well-being. "Alright then," he conceded. "How about we retry that movie you dozed off while watching? Unless you didn’t care for it." Rist's response was a soft chuckle. "I can't judge it having seen so little. Would you mind if we watched it again?" "Not in the least. It was a decent story.” Kelfin affirmed. As they began to watch the movie, Rist nestled into Kelfin just as she had previously—resting her head on his shoulder while he wrapped his arm around her. "Do you plan on staying awake this time?" he teased lightly. "This time I've had some rest on the ship. And the journey was less taxing since you and Yol managed to resolve your differences. You don't mind me being this close, do you?" Rist inquired, lifting her eyes to meet his. "No," he answered quietly, his gaze briefly flitting to her lips. He wondered fleetingly about the sensation of pressing his own against them. Their eyes locked, and in that moment, it seemed as if her gaze also darted to his mouth—perhaps she harbored similar thoughts? Was the desire coming from her? Kelfin doubted it, recalling his thoughts in the solitude of his bath, untainted by her presence. Yet here she was, looking at him intently, stirring questions within him. He desired clarity—a simple kiss to resolve the tension. Just like the one they shared at the gala. Clearing his throat softly, he leaned in slightly, "Rist…" The gentle, unassuming ring of the door chime cut through the stillness of the night, immediately sending a wave of irritation through Kelfin. With an exasperated sigh, he muttered to himself, "Who'd be coming out at this hour?" His thoughts immediately thrummed with an undercurrent of concern—visitors were rare at such a late hour and seldom brought good news. Rist echoed his apprehension from across the dimly lit room with a sharp retort. "Who knows we're back?" It was a genuine question, their early return had been without fanfare or announcement. Only a select few were privy to their movements, Shor and Yol whose first instinct would have been to call. As Kelfin rose from his seat, his mind was ticking through possibilities, each more unlikely than the last. With a careful stride, he made his way toward the front door, his hand instinctively reaching for one of the many guns that Dath had strategically placed throughout the house for security. Kelfin grasped the weapon, feeling the weight of it and the reassurance it provided. He knew it was unlikely that anyone with ill intent would signal their arrival, but better safe than sorry. Approaching the door, Kelfin didn't immediately open it. Instead, he paused to check the door monitor, his eyes scanning the small screen. On it, he saw two police officers standing with an air of official urgency. One of them was familiar to him, a face he remembered seeing when he'd been pulled over for speeding. Feeling a tad more at ease, he discreetly set the gun aside, out of sight, and proceeded to open the door. "Kelfin Mor?" one of the officers inquired, his tone authoritative with a hint of suspicion. Kelfin, hearing his full name articulated with such formality, felt a familiar twinge of discomfort. He hadn't been ready to share that with Rist just yet. Feigning composure, he acknowledged the query with a simple affirmation, "Yes." The word hung awkwardly in the air between them, a harbinger of the surprise that was to follow. "You're under arrest for the attempted murder of Yol Mor," the officer announced, his face set in grim determination. Kelfin felt the floor threaten to give way beneath him as the words registered. "I what?" he almost choked on the question, a mix of disbelief and shock knotting in his gut. "Yol was shot," the officer continued, his voice carrying the weight of unyielded fact. "You're known to have firearms." With a slight nod, the officer gestured to the location where Kelfin had just lay the gun. The implication was as clear as it was damning. "And you have a motive." Rist, who had followed silently behind Kelfin, now made her presence known with a sharp interjection, "What motive?" Her voice carried a blend of concern and defiance, unwilling to let the accusation stand uncontested. The second police officer, who had been silent up until now, chimed in, "As Yol’s brother, he’s next in line to inherit the company." Kelfin's frustration simmered into the open. "I'm not," he began to protest, but the complexity of family ties and confidential promises sealed his lips before he could elaborate. "You are Kelfin Mor, Yol’s brother, are you not?" the first officer probed further, his gaze steady and probing, seeking a fissure in Kelfin's composure. "Yes, but..." Kelfin trailed off, the rest of the sentence dissolving into silence. He couldn't explain, not here, not in front of these officers, and certainly not in front of Rist. He had given his word to Yol, a vow steeped in undisclosed truths and unspoken loyalty. The promise was his to keep, even if it meant facing the consequences of a crime he did not commit. Rist's astonishment was palpable, yet she maintained her composure in the face of the unexpected news. "We just saw Yol this very afternoon. When did this happen?" The officer responded, "The event took place roughly an hour ago." "But Kel has been with me the whole time," Rist quickly interjected, determined to establish an alibi for her companion. "And who might you be?" The officer inquired, seeking clarification. "I'm Kel's assistant; my name is Rist," she replied confidently. "May I have your full designation for the record?" the officer requested. Rist obliged, "Rist M49872." Upon receiving Rist's designation, the officer entered it into his arrest pad. The screen flashed before he looked up, "According to our records, you're classified as an 'indebted.' Unfortunately, as per our regulations, you're not permitted to stand in as a witness for your sponsor." Rist's confusion was evident as she pressed for an explanation, "And why exactly is that?" The familiar officer at Kelfin's side explained, "Regrettably, the testimony of an indebted individual is considered unreliable. There's a history of indebted persons providing false statements to improve their own situations, such as reducing their debts. It's a matter of legal policy." Then, directing his attention to Kelfin, the officer asked, "Do any members of your staff happen to be present?" Kelfin, his expression solemn, shook his head. "No, it's just Rist and myself here," he acknowledged. He then looked towards Rist, instructions forming rapidly in his mind. "Contact Froll; he's well-versed in legal matters and can secure a suitable lawyer for us. Also, inform the rest of the team about the situation, but instruct Dath to remain in the hospital until he's formally discharged. Additionally, reach out to the local hospital to inquire about Yol's condition. Should you encounter any resistance, don’t hesitate to use my name." Rist nodded, absorbing the gravity of Kelfin's instructions. Despite the barrage of emotions that Rist was undoubtedly experiencing—a cocktail of confusion, shock, worry, and fear—she remained focused and clearheaded, ready to act on Kelfin's behalf. As the officers placed the handcuffs securely around Kelfin's wrists, a wave of dread for the impending situation washed over him. The prospect of jail loomed before him, a prospect he perceived to be as daunting as his mental hospital stay for those struggling with emotional dysregulation. Before they could lead Kelfin away, Rist, ever diligent, inquired, "Wait—what about his medication?" The officer, momentarily caught off-guard by the query, echoed, "Medication?" With swift action, Rist presented the bottle of medication. Scrutinizing the label and inspecting the contents with a swift glance, the officer gave a nod of acknowledgment. "We'll make sure these are administered accordingly," he assured, taking the bottle and placing it securely in his pocket. With that settled, Kelfin's spirit waned just a tad more as the officers began to escort him from the premises. His mind was ablaze with anxieties about the challenges ahead, as he pondered the cold, uncertain fate that was waiting to envelop him. *** Rist's heart raced as she watched Kelfin being forcefully put into the back of a police transport and driven away. She couldn't help but think about what might happen to her, an indebted, if he was found guilty. But she pushed those thoughts aside, knowing that time was of the essence. Kelfin wouldn't last long in jail. Frantically, she tried calling Froll, hoping for some guidance or support. But there was no answer. She left a desperate message before moving on to call each of the others in their group, only to be met with more unanswered calls. Panic began to set in as she realized she didn't know many others in Anore who could help her. She hesitated at the thought of reaching out to Cral, unsure if she could trust him. And her feelings towards Kessa and Shor were just as uncertain. Feeling desperate and alone, Rist call the only other person she knew who might be able to assist her in this dire situation. "Rist? Is everything okay?" Zela's voice sounded concerned on the other end of the line. "Now's not a good time. Mr. Mor has been shot." "I know," Rist said solemnly. "Kelfin was arrested too. I can't get a hold of the others. I'm stuck at the house and I need help." Zela frowned "That explains why no one can get a hold of Kel. I'll come out and get you. You can explain." The trip from Mor's to the house usually took twenty minutes, but Zela was able to make it there in just ten. Her speedy arrival led Rist to believe that either she hadn't been at Mor's in the first place or she drove recklessly fast, much like Kelfin. Confused and concerned, Zela immediately started bombarding Rist with questions. "What's going on? There's no way Kel tried to kill Yol," she insisted. "What are you guys even doing back? Where are the others? And where's the auto?" Rist held up a hand, motioning for Zela to calm down. "Zela, slow down," she said gently. "Let me explain." Zela took a deep breath, trying to compose herself. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice still filled with urgency. "Things are crazy at the office. With Yol incapacitated, Kelfin is supposed to take charge. Is everything alright?" Rist nodded in understanding. "Yes, everything is okay. The others are still in Marstat. We left the auto at the port for them. Kelfin was planning to use the two-seater to get back. As for why we came back early, it was because the reporters kept hounding us after the fight." "Fight? What fight?" Zela demanded. Rist recounted her lunch with Cral, the encounter with the reporters, and Dath's arrest. "Dath was taken into custody, but he's been released. They aren't pressing charges," Rist explained before describing the situation with Dath's injured eye. "Will he be okay?" Zela inquired. "He's doing fine. He's already received a new eye. Yol made sure he got it replaced right away. Another day or two and he'll be cleared to leave." "Good. And what about Kel?" “The authorities suspect Kel simply because he's related to Yol. Did you have any idea that they were brothers?” Zela seemed surprised, replying, “He didn’t mention it to you? It's well-known that Bril legally adopted him. I've even heard rumors suggesting that he's a distant cousin of theirs.” “That wasn't disclosed to me. Being brothers, Kel is in line to inherit the company after Yol. And since he owns firearms, the police believe he could be the perpetrator,” Rist confided, indicating the gun that lay near the entrance. “But those guns belong to Dath and are designed to be non-lethal. There’s no way Kel could have committed a fatal act with one of those,” Zela reasoned. “Kel is innocent,” Rist asserted. “He was with me when the incident took place.” Shocked, Zela queried, “You didn’t inform the authorities about your alibi?” “I did, but they disregarded my statement. They questioned my credibility as a witness,” Rist replied. Puzzled, Zela asked, “Why would they do that?” Rist hesitated, reluctant to admit her personal situation but recognizing the necessity for transparency if she was to seek Zela's assistance. “I’m an indebted,” she confessed with a note of discomfort in her voice. Zela was taken aback. “Kelfin is your sponsor? But why? There’s no reason he shouldn’t be, yet…” Deciphering the confusion in Zela's response, Rist elaborated. “For six months, he turned down every prospective assistant, only to choose some bum from the intake. It doesn’t seem logical.” “I wouldn't call you a 'bum.' Plenty of decent people find themselves in dire straits. And you can’t overlook Kelfin’s compassionate nature. His treatment of Dath is a testament to that,” Zela remarked, trying to lighten the mood and offer some perspective amid the unfolding drama. Rist's situation was indeed different. "He came to the intake looking for someone. Kel's not an enochlophobe. He's an empath," Rist explained with a certain level of pride and concern mingling in her voice. Zela, taken aback by the revelation, did a double take. "He's what?" she exclaimed with a mix of surprise and curiosity. "He's an empath. He feels other people's emotions," Rist said, elaborating further on Kel's rare ability to perceive and experience the emotions of those around him. "I know what one is. I just never guessed he was one. That explains why… a lot. And you, you're not just an assistant," Zela deduced, connecting the dots as the peculiarities of Kel's behavior suddenly began to make sense. Rist nodded in acknowledgment. "I'm a companion. I'm there for him to focus on my emotions so he doesn't get overwhelmed by others," she said, revealing the supportive role he played in Kel's life. "That's why he holds my hand or puts an arm around me. Physical contact helps stabilize him by creating a direct and reassuring emotional connection." Zela's eyes softened as she thought about the implications. "If he's that sensitive, that strong an empath, there's no way he could bring himself to try to kill Yol," she asserted confidently. "But we can't tell anyone about it," Rist pointed out with a worried frown. "It's supposed to be a secret. I wasn't even supposed to tell you." Her voice was tinged with a hint of concern about the breach of trust. "Don't worry about me. I can keep a secret. Right now, we need to focus on helping Kel," Zela reassured her, her determination clear. "But how?" Rist pondered, feeling at a loss for how to proceed. Zela's mind raced, searching for a solution. "What about the house security? Are there cameras that might have recorded something useful?" she asked. "Not to my knowledge. Dath is in charge of all the security," Rist replied, with a note of helplessness creeping into her voice, given that Dath was currently unavailable. "And he's hospitalized. Unless… did you try calling him or sending a message?" Zela inquired, looking for potential ways to get in touch. "I called," Rist confirmed, but with little hope, since she had received no reply. Unwilling to give up, Zela pulled out her tablet and sent a concise but urgent message. "If his cybernetic eye is programmed properly, he'll receive this message. Some hospitals block calls at night to ensure patients aren't disturbed by the ringing. It's already late there. Messages are sent on a different frequency, so they aren't usually blocked," she explained. Rist pondered the time difference. "If it's so late, maybe he's asleep," she speculated, not quite convinced they would get a prompt response. "A priority message will wake him," Zela stated confidently. They didn't have to wait long. A moment later, a message buzzed in. Despite the late hour and his condition, Dath had received her alert: I'm not supposed to use my eye. I’ll call when I can. It may be a few hours. Sorry. Zela's curse cut through the tension, an air of urgency surrounding her question. “Is everyone in Marstat?” Rist's nod was solemn and immediate. “All except Froll. He’s currently in Pegate.” “Pegate’s closer," Zela calculated quickly. "He’ll be able to get here the fastest.” “That's assuming we can get a hold of him,” Rist interjected. "And what about Kel? How is he going to handle being in jail?” “He’s still a Mor. They won’t let others near him,” Zela assured her, her voice firm with conviction. Rist seemed to wrestle with her thoughts before voicing her concern. “But what about their emotions? He told me the hospital was a nightmare. Surely, the conditions in jail can't be any better.” Zela's expression darkened, mirroring Rist's worry. Her eyes briefly flicked to the clock. “Who at work knows about him?” “Kessa, Shor, and Dr. Mesk,” Rist replied, after a moment of contemplation. “Mesk might be able to help us. But not tonight. Even if we can get ahold of him right away, we couldn’t get to a judge until morning.” Zela’s tone shifted, now practical and decisive. “Pack a bag. You can’t stay this far from town alone without transportation. You'll stay with me until the others get back.” Rist seemed hesitant. “Are you sure?” she asked. “I don’t want to impose.” Zela's grin was a sliver of light in the grim situation. “Honey, Kel isn’t the only one with space to spread out. I’m not Yol's golden boy by any means, but I’ve been the head of textiles for half a century. Trust me, there’s plenty of room.” Reassured, Rist gave a small nod, her movements deliberate as she packed for the uncertain days ahead. *** Exhausted from the day's events, neither Rist nor Zela could resist the lure of sleep once they arrived at Zela's residence. Although Zela's house lacked the grand scale of Kelfin's dwelling, it still carried an air of elegance that was hard not to admire. With a kind gesture of hospitality, Zela guided Rist to one of the well-appointed guest rooms. Before succumbing to her own tiredness, Zela attempted to call and check on Yol's condition, but finding no new information, she too gave in to the embrace of slumber. The following morning, Rist woke up with the dawn, a habit ingrained from her past. She dressed quickly and went in search of Zela, finding her host already busy in the kitchen. The aroma of frying eggs filled the space, a homely contrast to the absent help. "I hope you like fried eggs," Zela confessed, "I don't have a cook. The housekeeper usually cooks but she's not here yet. I don't know how to make much." "It's fine. I'm not picky. Do you need a hand?" Rist offered, her voice mixing with the sizzle of the eggs. Zela responded with an appreciative smile. "Why doesn't it surprise me that you can cook? I'm almost done. Help yourself to some coffee. There's cream, sugar, and your choice of flavors." Rist nodded her thanks. Coffee had been a sparse indulgence in her days in Marstat when every credit counted. Now, however, she found herself enjoying it with increasing frequency. She poured a cup, though her taste for it was overshadowed by the more pressing concerns about Kelfin and the trouble they all found themselves in. Zela and Rist settled at the table to enjoy their breakfast when Zela’s tablet chimed with an incoming call. Her expression brightened as she immediately recognized the caller. "Dath, how are you doing?" she greeted him. “You heard about my accident?” Dath guessed with a hint of concern in his voice. “I'm fine now though, just eager to be out of here,” he continued, referring to his hospital stay. "I'm just waiting for the doctor to give me the go-ahead to leave. I apologize for not being able to talk with you last night. The neuro-pathways in my new eye are still undergoing adjustments, so sending and receiving messages is quite challenging right now. Anything more than that is currently impossible. Additionally, the doctor is worried about the prosthetic overheating if I push myself too hard. But enough about me, what did you need? I also need to call Rist as she reached out to all of us." "She's here with me," Zela reassured Dath, trying to provide comfort. "Yol was shot and Kel was arrested. Unfortunately, they won't let Rist act as Kel's alibi since he is her sponsor. Are there any cameras in the house?" Rist inquired, hoping for another possible alibi. "Of course, there are," Dath assured them, confidently nodding. "I've taken the liberty of installing them in every room, except the bedrooms and baths for privacy reasons. I didn't neglect the hallways either; cameras are strategically placed there to ensure no one can enter the bedrooms unseen." Rist considered this for a moment. "He was only in his room for about a half-hour," she reflected aloud. "With this setup, he'll be on camera for the majority of the evening." Zela's face brightened at this realization. "Perfect. We can present it to the police and conclusively prove Kel's innocence." Dath's expression, however, turned slightly grim. "To protect privacy, I encrypted the files. The key is my eye, my old eye. The computer won't recognize my new one." Rist's brows furled in concern. "Is there a way to bypass the encryption? Can you hack into it?" Dath nodded, though not without a hint of frustration. "Of course, but I need to be physically present to interface directly with the system." Zela pondered for a moment before suggesting, "Maybe we could get someone from the office to attempt it?" But Dath was quick to dismiss the idea. "No," he said firmly. "They lack the necessary technical prowess for such a delicate task. My new eye is nearly finished—a few more tweaks, and I should be discharged from the clinic later today. Once I'm released, we can arrange immediate transport. Given the time needed for travel, we'll be there by tomorrow, or the day after at the latest." Skepticism laced Rist’s voice. "You're certain you'll be by then?" she pressed. "Kel was adamant about you not rushing your recovery." With a slight grimace, Dath gestured to his eye. "I'm virtually there. I'm tormented by a persistent visual overlay that reads 95% complete. To put it mildly, it's like having an intrusive progress bar on everything I lay my eyes on. So yes, I'm quite eager to conclude this business. “Just don't push," Rist insisted, her voice heavy with concern. Her tablet emitted a soft chime, signaling an incoming call. It was Satil, his face a mosaic of pixels on the screen, with Corish peeking over his shoulder in the background. “You called us?" Satil's voice filtered through the speaker. "I called everybody," Rist said with a sense of urgency. "Kel's been arrested." "Wait a minute." Satil's fingers danced over the tablet screen, bridging connections across their network. Froll's and Hurmis's faces appeared, joining the call. "I can't get Dath on the line,” Satil reported, disappointment shading his tone. "He's engaged in a conversation with Zela," Rist explained. Zela, anticipating such a need, had already positioned her tablet within view so that both she and Dath could participate in the group call. Once her tablet was positioned, Rist took a moment to outline the predicament once more for the newly joined members of the conversation. "I know a good lawyer," Froll quickly chimed in, a hint of resolve in his voice. “I'll reach out to her immediately after this.” “Kelly's not going to handle jail well. He’s fragile; he might shut down," Satil said, grimacing at the thought. "We should consider options to help him stay calm, maybe even sedate him if it comes to that.” “We've got a plan to talk to Mesk today," Zela interjected, determined to contribute to the solution. "Plus, Dath mentioned there are security cameras at the residence that he can check once you're back in town." "I'll be making my way back to North Marstat within the hour," Hurmis announced, ready to lend his support. "Dath, see if you can discuss the possibility of getting tranquilizers from the doctor for the flight home." Dath nodded in agreement, "I'm at 96% done. I'll inquire with the nurse about arranging a conversation with the doctor." "Don't rush your recovery," Satil injected with caution. "You don’t want to deal with any complications that might set you back.” "I'm not taking any risks," Dath assured the group. "We'll see you tomorrow," he added with a nod toward Rist and Zela. Following this, Dath ended his part of the call, and one by one, the others did the same, each returning to their immediate tasks, united in their efforts to address the crisis at hand. After finishing their breakfast, Rist and Zela wasted no time in heading over to Mor's establishment. With the intention of bypassing the throng of reporters they anticipated would be clustering around the front entrance, Zela cleverly chose to park at the rear of the building. Without delay, they proceeded directly to the research laboratories to seek out Dr. Mesk. Upon their arrival, a concerned expression was evident on Dr. Mesk's features. "Did you hear about Yol?" he inquired, his brow creased with worry. "We're aware that he was shot," they replied, expressing an ignorance of Yol's current condition, "We haven't been updated on his state." "He's still in a coma," Dr. Mesk explained. "The surgeons were operating on him for the majority of the evening. Although they're optimistic about his recovery, it's still uncertain when he'll regain consciousness." Hearing this, Rist exhaled a sigh of profound relief, hopeful for Yol's recovery. "Mesk, we need your assistance," Zela said urgently. "Kelfin has been arrested on suspicion of the assault." "That's preposterous," Dr. Mesk countered with conviction, "He can't even defend himself. That's why he has a bodyguard." "We agree," Zela replied. "Rist was accompanying Kelfin at the time of the incident. However, she's a transfer and her account may not hold as much weight." "The rest of our team is currently away," Rist added. "They'll be able to help clear Kelfin, but they're not due back until tomorrow, at the earliest. Kelfin won't be able to withstand a prolonged detention." "Indeed, the stresses of jail could be detrimental to his health and potentially result in hospitalization. We can't leverage his empathic abilities as a reason for his release. Yet considering that he's still under medical care, I could possibly arrange for his confinement here. We possess an isolation room that would be suitable for monitoring him," Dr. Mesk suggested, already considering the logistics. "That solution seems promising," Rist said with hopeful approval. "I'll make the necessary phone calls immediately," Dr. Mesk responded. "In the meantime, you two should check on the other ongoing projects. Given Rist's role as Kelfin's assistant, she is well-equipped to take over some of his responsibilities. Make sure to coordinate with Shor and Kessa on this." With their new plan of action underway, Rist and Zela felt a sense of purpose, ready to tackle the challenges ahead and do whatever was necessary to ensure Kelfin's well-being and exoneration. Both Kessa and Shor went to find the HR personnel. Kessa's assistant asked them to wait momentarily while he concluded a call. As they exited Kessa's office, Shor was taken aback when he noticed Rist standing there. Kessa, showing signs of surprise as well, asked, "Rist? What brings you here? Where's Kelfin? We've been attempting to contact him." "He's in jail," Rist stated in a matter-of-fact tone. The news hit Kessa and Shor like a bucket of cold water. "Did he get in trouble for speeding again?" Shor asked half-jokingly, raising an eyebrow. Rist shook her head, her face solemn. "They think he shot Mr. Mor." The room fell silent, everyone processing the gravity of the accusation. Kessa's mind raced, trying to make sense of it all. "Did he?" Shor asked, seeking confirmation. Kessa shot him a disapproving look and reflexively backhanded his arm. Zela couldn't let the accusation go unchallenged. "Of course not. But that's what they're alleging. Rist is going to step in for Kelfin until he's back." Shor's eyes widened in disbelief. "She's going to fill in? With Mr. Mor in the hospital, Kelfin would be running everything. Rist is going to take charge of Mor's Conglomerate?" Zela straightened her posture, her determination evident. "Yes, that's the plan. And you two are going to help her." Kessa and Shor exchanged surprised glances, realizing the weight of the situation and the magnitude of the task that awaited them. But Rist can't," Shor protested. "She doesn't really work for Mor's. She's just Kelfin's companion." "I do work for Mor's," Rist insisted. "I even get a paycheck. Mr. Mor decided that since I was taking on the responsibilities of an assistant, I should be employed here." Kessa and Shor frowned at each other, unsure of what to make of Rist's employment status. "It's only for a few days until we can get Kelfin released," Zela assured them, trying to put their concerns at ease. Kessa sighed and nodded. "Alright, but let's establish some ground rules. No purchases or sales, and no signing for Mr. Mor." Rist nodded understandingly. She had assumed that much. It made sense that her authority would be limited, especially when it came to financial matters involving Mr. Mor. "Good. Now, I need to check on my department," Zela declared. "I'll be back later to help. Rist, don't let these two give you trouble." "We'll be fine," Rist assured her, confident in her ability to handle the responsibilities entrusted to her, particularly in Zela's absence. As Zela left, Rist, Kessa, and Shor found themselves swamped with various concerns from managers and clients. The three of them worked diligently to address each issue promptly, ensuring that things ran smoothly. About mid-morning, just as Rist thought they had managed to catch up on their tasks, she received a summons to the labs. Curious, she made her way there and found Dr. Mesk waiting, accompanied by an unfamiliar woman. "This is Baj," Dr. Mesk introduced without preamble. "She's the legal lawyer Froll contacted. And this," he gestured towards Rist, "is Rist. She's recently taken up the position as Kelfin's new assistant." With a courteous nod, Baj extended her hand. "Nice to meet you," she said, her tone reflecting both professionalism and a tinge of urgency. "Dr. Mesk and I have been in discussions with a judge to orchestrate a delicate situation. We've successfully arranged for Kelfin to be detained here, in one of the isolation chambers. It's crucial that he receives medical attention, and we've ensured that the arrangement reflects that. He's due to arrive shortly. You'll be granted a brief opportunity to observe him during the transfer, but it's imperative to understand that his interactions will be strictly limited to medical personnel." Rist frowned slightly, a mix of confusion and concern crossing her features. "Why such strict limitations?" she inquired. Dr. Mesk exchanged a glance with Baj before elaborating. "We had to put forth a narrative that Kelfin's health is precarious — that his condition necessitates isolation for his own safety," he said. "It was the only way to circumvent the need to disclose his psionic abilities to the authorities, an explanation that would only invite more complications." Understanding dawned on Rist, and she quickly shifted her attention back to Baj. "I assume, then, you're not privy to the specifics of Kelfin's psionic talent?” "That's accurate," Baj confirmed. "Froll briefed me on the situation, but the details of Kelfin's abilities were not disclosed. Rest assured, it's not an immediate concern to the case at hand.” Sensing the conversation steering toward legal matters, Rist raised the subject of their critical evidence. "Has Froll informed you about the security footage?" she asked. "The recordings that might prove Kelfin’s innocence?" Baj shook her head, her expression transforming to one reflecting caution and interest. "He mentioned there was evidence that could exonerate Kelfin. Our conversation was brief; he was eager to catch the next available flight to offer his support here.” Rist took a moment to summarize the situation regarding the surveillance cameras and needing Dath to access them. Upon hearing this, Baj’s frown deepened with concern. "Approaching the judge with a request for Dath to handle the recordings might not be well-received," she mused. "The judge will likely have reservations regarding tampering with crucial evidence." "What if we made sure his access was monitored?" Rist proposed, trying to find a middle ground that would satisfy the court's concerns. "Someone could supervise him to ensure that the integrity of the evidence remains intact." Baj seemed to consider this for a moment before nodding slowly. "It's a reasonable suggestion. I'll communicate this to the judge. A supervised access might be a compromise they're willing to accept. If you could provide me with Dath's contact information, I'll reach out to him posthaste so we can prevent any unsanctioned activity with the camera feed.” The predicament was clear: Dath's absence meant a delay; a window in time through which the true perpetrator could be slipping further out of reach. Rist's voice was tinged with frustration as he conveyed his concerns. "The problem is, that Dath won't be back until tomorrow at the earliest. The real killer could be getting away," she lamented, the urgency evident in his tone. Baj remained calm, reassuring her with a measured response. "While the police can't take your word that Kelfin's innocent, they aren't ignoring it either. They are actively pursuing other leads and consider multiple suspects," she explained. Her confidence in their procedure helped to alleviate some of Rist's immediate worries. "Good," Rist sighed with a hint of relief, her tense posture softening slightly upon hearing Baj's words. The room fell into somber silence until it was broken by the arrival of Kelfin. As he was escorted in, his haggard appearance struck everyone there; the toll of the ordeal was written all over him. While it had been only one night since his detainment, the look of exhaustion was apparent. Despite the discomfort of the handcuffs, Kelfin managed to find some solace in Rist's proximity, seeking a brief embrace. As Rist moved to reciprocate, a guard stepped in, pulling Kelfin away before their hands could fully clasp. Kelfin was directed to an isolation chamber, a bleak room with the barest of amenities: just a bed and a table, while a modest bathroom facility occupied one corner. The guard tried to prevent the others from entering. Kelfin's face creased into a frown, "I need to talk to my lawyer," he declared, his words slurred but resolute. "You’re supposed to be isolated," the guard reminded an edge of authority in his voice. "Were you drugged?" Baj's concern was unmistakable. Kelfin responded, albeit a bit drowsily, "It was with consent." "We have it noted in his medical records," the guard interjected quickly, aiming to put an end to their concerns. "And according to those records, he's to be kept in isolation." "You've kept him surrounded by people all night," Mesk chimed in, his logic undeniable. "Five minutes alone with us won't make a significant difference. Moreover, he has a right to consult with his attorney." The guard exhaled a resignation-filled sigh, clearly outmatched by their arguments. He nodded, giving Baj the signal to step into the chamber with Kelfin. "Rist too," Kelfin's plea was direct, expressing his need for her presence. "She has been his caretaker," Mesk added, helping to clarify her importance to Kelfin's state of being. Understanding the gravity of the situation, the guard reluctantly agreed, allowing both Baj and Rist to accompany Kelfin, acknowledging the necessity and comfort their presence provided him in his hour of need. “Five minutes," the guard declared with a stoic voice. He unlocked and removed the handcuffs from Kelfin’s wrists with a click that resonated in the sterile cell. Kelfin immediately took Rist’s outstretched hand, her presence bringing him a slice of comfort. Her body pressed against his side, a silent testament to shared burdens. As the guard's steps receded down the echoing corridor, Kelfin slipped his free arm around Rist and guided her to sit with him on the austere bed provided in the holding cell. "We're working to secure your release,” Baj assured Kelfin with a tone of unwavering conviction. “Once Dath returns, we can access the house cameras," Rist contributed, offering a ray of hope that evidence would speak on Kelfin's behalf. "Dath isn’t going to leave the hospital early, is he?" Kelfin’s brows furrowed with concern, his mind clearly still strategizing even from within his confinement. "The rest of the team is covertly ensuring that he remains there," Rist informed him with a nod of certainty as if to underline the control they still held on the outside. "That’s relieving to hear. I'll manage here. Focus on the task at hand and don't expend unnecessary worry on me," Kelfin expressed, his voice steady despite the trying circumstances. "Have they been treating you okay?” Baj inquired, her eyes scanning Kelfin for any signs of mistreatment. “And the sedative they administered, that was with your consent?" "It was. I was afforded the privacy of my own cell," Kelfin explained, trying to provide a silver lining in his situation. "The emotional toll was immense, and the sedative aided in dulling the worst of it. Remember, I am not the central issue here. I'm not the problem. I'm not Yol's heir," Kelfin insisted firmly, trying to shift their focus. "But by law, the adoption dictates you’re his closest kin," Rist said softly, her disagreement gentle yet laced with her own worries. "No, I’m not,” Kelfin interjected with slight agitation, ready to dispel their mistaken belief. "The legality of the adoption binds you, regardless of your attempts to distance yourself from it," Baj pointed out, her voice carrying both sympathy and a tinge of exasperation. Kelfin paused, drawing a deep breath before making his revelation. "It’s not about the adoption. The decisive fact is that Yol has a son." A stunned silence followed before Baj could muster a response. "He has a what?" Kelfin, with fresh resolve in his voice, affirmed, “He has a son. The boy’s around five years old now, though it’s been some time since I last saw him. He's kept the boy and his mom hidden to protect them from things like this. Only a lawyer and I know about the relationship. Rist did her best to control her quell the rising concern as she leaned forward, her eyes probing Kelfin's tired face. "If someone tried to kill Yol and frame you, could the boy be in danger too?" Rist asked, her voice laced with worry over the safety of Yol's young heir. Kelfin, his eyes shadowed with fatigue, nodded thoughtfully. "If they know about him, it’s a good chance,” he said, acknowledging the risk to the boy due to his potential inheritance and the deadly game of power at play. A hint of suspicion crept into Baj's tone as she interjected, "Could his mother be involved?” Her question hung in the air like a thick fog, implying a shocking possibility. Kelfin shook his head with certainty. “No, she has no ambitions like that. She was worried when Yol updated his will to name the boy heir. She feared that if something happened to Yol while the boy was still too young, she'd be thrust into the unwanted role of a steward. It's all set up as a trust. Neither she nor the boy can lay hands on it until he's of legal age.” "So where is the boy now?" Rist pressed on, his brows furrowing with the urgency of the matter. "I don't know," Kelfin admitted, a frown creasing his brow. "The few times I've seen him, he was at Yol's. But Dath can locate the boy,” he assured them, expressing faith in Dath's resourcefulness. "What's his name?" Rist persisted, understanding the importance of every shred of information. Kelfin's response was somewhat vague. "I don't know his full designation, only the name Yol called him. Tell Dath to check my contacts. He'll find what he needs to start the search," he urged, providing them a starting point. As the conversation slipped into the realm of personal well-being, Rist's voice softened. “Have you been taking your medicine?" she asked, a note of concern sneaking into his voice. Kelfin reassured him with a nod. "It hasn't been on time, but I've managed to take it," he replied, acknowledging his lapse but affirming his adherence to the medical regimen. Their time for discussion was abruptly cut short as the guard swiftly opened the door, declaring, "Time's up. Any further visitation will have to be through a tablet. And except for Ms. Baj, visitations must be scheduled at least a day in advance. Ms. Baj, please ensure you call ahead so we can arrange for an authorized tablet." Baj, quick to respond and practical, promised, "We'll make sure a tablet is always here for him." As the conversation wrapped up, Rist offered words of assurance to Kelfin. "I'll see you soon," Rist told him confidently. "Shor, Kessa, and I have everything under control here, and Zela and I are handling everything else." Kelfin, caught off-guard, questioned, "Zela?" His expression was a mix of curiosity and concern. The guard—impatient and authoritative—insisted, "It's time to go." Rist offered a parting explanation, her voice hurried yet transparent. "I needed someone I could trust," she said, alluding to the complexities of the situation they found themselves in. With a final look back at Kelfin, Rist stepped out into the corridor, the door closing with a definitive click behind her.