Grace led Kyle and Jessi into the center of the UW Latnok work area. She said "Everyone gather around, I have another announcement." She paused while the students set their work aside. "I would like to announce that we have asked Kyle and Jessi to be assistant directors. They will work for me and, if I am not available you can contact them about supplies, equipment and so on. Many of you have worked with them already and know that they can bring an astonishing insight to many problems. I urge you to seek their assistance whenever possible."

There was a small applause. Jessi commented quietly to Kyle, "It's you they are applauding."

Kyle said, "Give them time. The ones who listen to you will do very well. The others will learn."

A number of the students they had worked with came up and congratulated them, and then went back to their various projects.

Kyle went over to Jackie and asked, "How's your plant growth project coming?"

Jackie said, "The growth is great, but I'm wondering if I can increase the absorbable protein."

Kyle called Jessi over and pointed to the genetics display. He explained, "Jackie is trying to increase absorbable protein, what do you think?"

Jessie pointed to a spot, and said, "She could transplant a gene here."

Jackie said, "That would work, what should we do on the matching allele? I would assume homozygous."

Jessi said, "Perhaps. We could try a heterozygous approach, if they are co-dominant, we would have variety within the same crop. That could provide a broader spectrum."

Kyle left them talking and walked over to where Mark was obviously watching him.

Mark said, "So, it looks like I made the right choice the other night."

"I really appreciated your help," Kyle said.

"I want you to know that you can always count on me. Anything you need," Mark said. He looked inquisitively at Kyle, "Am I ever going to find out what was really going on?"

"Probably not," Kyle grinned. "It might be better not to. It's good to know I can count on you, though."

Mark shook his head as Kyle walked away.

Nate was watching too. When there was no one near him, Kyle went over and said. "I think we have some things to talk about."

"Like your sending Amanda to spy on me? That was quite a setup. She had me fooled with her innocent act. I fell for it completely. I should have known she was too good to be true."

Kyle bristled, "Amanda wasn't spying on you."

Nate snorted, "I caught her and Jessi stealing my files."

"That was after she accidentally found them," Kyle protested. He looked intently at Nate, "There is one question I need the answer to. How did you get Sarah's ring?"

Nate looked blank, "Whose ring? Oh, was that the red Latnok ring? Why should I tell you?"

"Did Cassidy give it to you or did you take it out of his safe?" Kyle asked.

"I don't have to answer that," Nate said.

"You already have. I wonder how you got into his safe? I guess we can discuss that some other time." Kyle said, and then he turned and walked away.