— Interlude —

Sordino

(sôrˈdēnō): a damper, mute

The door of the elevator slid open, revealing Caross stepping into the top-floor office of Tedan Tippedai Headquarters. His polished appearance reflected the formality of his position: a sleeveless, ornate white tunic layered over a fitted navy-blue shirt, the silver, roped tendrils of the accents atop his broad shoulders glinting under the dimmed office lighting. His forearms were protected by sleek gray bracers, his hands clasped lightly in front of him. A pair of baggy navy-blue trousers tucked neatly into tall gray boots gave him a sense of practicality, but it was the short red cape, draped elegantly from his left shoulder and cascading to his wrist, that added a regal flare befitting his station.

He moved with measured purpose across the expansive room, his gloved fingers brushing absently over his slicked dirty-blonde hair as he approached the desk. Behind it, President Puttubayh sat in an air of calculated composure, gazing out of the massive window at Myce's setting sun. The fiery hues bathed the city below in a fleeting golden light, a stark contrast to the shadows looming within the Corporation's plans.

Caross stopped just short of the desk, his stance casual but respectful. "...Touka's not in his lab," he said, his voice low yet firm, cutting through the quiet. His sharp eyes observed the President for any reaction. "None of the other scientists saw him leave either—or so they claim."

Puttubayh turned his chair to face Caross, his expression breaking into a measured grin. The man's sharp, calculating demeanor was unmistakable as he studied his Vice President. "Well, we should have expected something like this from the old fool," Puttubayh replied smoothly. "He's been associated with that girl, after all. Always a risk."

Caross posture was loose, but his mind worked quietly, absorbing every word. "Do you think he plans to interfere?" he asked, his tone casual but carrying a hint of intrigue. "As the head of the science team, he would—"

Puttubayh chuckled softly, a deep sound that carried both amusement and menace. He rose from his chair, his tailored suit catching the glow of the dim sunlight as he moved around the desk. "Touka is of no concern to us," he said dismissively, brushing an invisible speck of dust from his sleeve. "His clearances were cut off months ago. Even if he's hired someone to act on his behalf, it won't matter. We have contingencies in place, and we'll be ready to intercept any interference."

The President's grin widened as he stepped closer to Caross, his voice growing more fervent. "Soon, we'll achieve what no one else has dared to even dream of. The rest will fall into place. Not just for him—just think, Caross… an endless army of unparalleled strength, under our control."

Caross's expression didn't falter as he gave a slight nod. "A truly formidable prospect," he replied, his tone carefully neutral, betraying neither agreement nor doubt. "If everything proceeds as planned, yours and the Corporation's influence will extend beyond what anyone could have imagined."

Puttubayh nodded, satisfied with the response. "And you, my friend, will have have the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of your own labor as well."

Puttubayh let out a quiet laugh, his tone measured but laced with an air of self-assured confidence. "Now," he said, his voice steady as he turned to face Caross fully, "don't trouble yourself too much, my boy. You just keep presenting that polished face to the public, and I will handle the rest."

"Yes, sir," Caross replied with a slight bow, his voice smooth and deferential, though his sharp eyes betrayed an undercurrent of contemplation.

"Good." Puttubayh stepped closer, his hands clasped lightly behind his back as he regarded his Vice President. "There's a certain harmony to success, Caross. Each piece must play its role perfectly for the symphony to succeed." He turned, walking toward the window and gazing out over the sprawling city of Myce bathed in the twilight glow. "Touka may not pose an immediate threat, but I won't risk his interference. Keep an eye on him. We can't afford any loose threads."

Puttubayh's voice dropped slightly, taking on a quieter, more pointed tone. "I have a meeting to attend in the anteroom. Alert the facility. Ensure everything remains operational. The next few days will be crucial." He turned back, his dark eyes fixing on Caross with an intensity that made it clear how much he valued control over every detail.

He stepped closer, resting a hand on Caross's shoulder in a gesture meant to convey camaraderie, though it felt calculated. "If all goes as we've planned, we'll have not just the world at our fingertips, but the universe itself," he said, his voice calm but filled with quiet conviction.

With that, Puttubayh walked toward a small lift at the side of the office, his steps deliberate. As the doors slid open, he cast one final glance at Caross, his expression unreadable. Then, without another word, he stepped inside, and the doors closed with a soft hiss, leaving Caross alone in the expansive office.

For a moment, Caross stood motionless, his gaze trailing to the floor-to-ceiling window where Puttubayh had been moments earlier. The city lights twinkled against the darkening sky, a view that seemed to stretch endlessly. Slowly, he turned toward the desk, his fingers brushing against the smooth surface with a faint, deliberate touch. His face remained impassive, but a subtle smile tugged at the corner of his lips, hinting at thoughts unspoken.

After a lingering moment, Caross straightened, the smirk vanishing as he turned and walked toward the elevator. His footsteps echoed softly against the polished floor, and as he stepped inside and the doors slid closed behind him. The office was left in silence, save for the faint hum of the building around it.