"What happened?"
"They're saying power surge. Backup systems failed to engage properly and then over-corrected." Kang's expression was neutral. "It was an electrical malfunction."
"You believe that?"
"I believe that's what the logs will show." Kang set his jaw. "But the surge would've tripped the house breakers first. The grid went dark before the safeties kicked in and—" He stopped. "That's not how they wired the building."
Something cold settled under my ribs. "Meaning?"
"Meaning someone bypassed the fail-over sequence." Kang looked at me. "Or told the system to hesitate."
"Can I see the booth?"
"Technical director said no. Union rules. Liability." Kang shifted his weight. "He also said the operator tonight differed from the previously scheduled tech. Last-minute replacement. Someone called in sick."
"Do we know who the replacement was?"
"Venue staff. Credentials checked. He's worked in this building before." Kang's tone suggested he didn't like it any more than I did. "Everything appears legitimate."
"Appears."
"Yes."
I spoke after a moment of silence. "I want access to the booth before tomorrow's show."
"I'll arrange it." Kang glanced past me toward the dressing area. "You should know, management is asking questions."
"What questions?"
"About enhanced protocols. About whether the increased security presence is necessary. They specifically mentioned you."
"Who's asking?"
"Soo-jin. Senior management. He wants to speak with you."
I thought about Soo-jin standing in the wings. Watching. Tracking Rune's position with the same attention I gave it.
"He's here now," Kang said. "Coming this way."
Soo-jin emerged from the corridor, moving with his characteristic precision. He looked exactly as he had in the wings—perfectly composed and immaculately dressed. His expression was pleasant. Controlled.
"Griffin." He offered a slight bow. "A moment?"
Kang excused himself smoothly, leaving us alone in the corridor.
Soo-jin smiled. "The show went well. The lighting issue was unfortunate, but the recovery was professional."
"It was."
"The band handled it perfectly. They're very experienced with technical difficulties." He swiped something on his tablet. "I understand you've been consulting with Kang about the security enhancements."
"Yes."
"The threats against Rune have quieted down. This is a positive development."
"Or concerning one."
He looked directly at me. "Concerning?"
