The next morning, sunlight filtered dimly through the high windows of the Oldest House, casting long shadows across Director Trench's office. The air was quiet, save for the faint hum of distant machinery and the steady rhythm of Trench's fingers drumming on his desk as he reviewed the latest reports.
There was a knock at the door. Without waiting for a response, Darling stepped inside, his usual brisk pace slightly slowed by the lingering pain in his side. He wore a freshly pressed lab coat, but the pallor in his face betrayed his condition.
"Darling," Trench greeted, setting aside the report. "Sit down."
"I'd prefer to stand, thank you," Darling replied, forcing a smile. "I'm fine."
Trench raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "You don't look fine. You should still be in medical."
"I'll rest when we have answers," Darling insisted. "There's too much at stake. The Plane's stability may be holding for now, but we both know it won't last unless we act quickly."
Trench sighed, leaning back in his chair. "You're as stubborn as ever. But I need you at your best, Darling. If you push too hard and collapse, this whole investigation falls apart."
"I appreciate your concern," Darling said, his tone softening. "But I'm well enough to continue. Besides, Underhill and the rest of the team are more than capable of handling the groundwork. I'll focus on analysis and strategy."
Trench studied him for a moment, then nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But if I see any sign that you're not up to it, I'm pulling you off the mission. Understood?"
"Understood." Darling straightened, wincing slightly but hiding it well. "Now, let's discuss our next steps. We need to start compiling the data from the core stabilization and cross-reference it with previous Plane fluctuations. If we can identify a pattern, it might help us predict the next disturbance."
Trench gave him a long look, clearly still concerned but choosing not to press further. "Alright. Keep me updated on your progress. And Darling—don't overdo it. I… We can't afford to lose you."
With a nod of acknowledgment, Darling turned and left the office, already mentally organizing the tasks ahead. The pain in his side remained a dull throb, but he pushed it aside. The mission wasn't over, and if the entity's warning was anything to go by, their real challenge was only beginning.