I remembered that conversation. Remembered his expression when I'd said it.Interesting perspective.
"The ferals in our care had a human form once," Tomlinson continued. "They may never be fully human again — not in the way we understand humanity. But that does not mean they are beyond reach. It means we must reach differently."
He sat down.
The room was quiet.
Then the Council chair spoke.
"Thank you, Professor. Does anyone else wish to contribute before we vote?"
Silence.
"Very well."
The vote was closer than I'd hoped.
Four in favor of the temporary stay. Three against.
But majority ruled.
"The Council grants a temporary stay," the chair announced. "The ferals will remain at the Healing Center under strict protocols. Security will be increased. Access will be limited to essential personnel only." She looked at me. "And Miss Orlav will continue her visits under Rae's supervision."
I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding.
"However," the chair continued, "this stay is conditional. A formal review will be conducted in thirty days. If sufficient progress has not been demonstrated by that time, the Council will revisit the question of removal."
Twilson's expression didn't change. But I saw something flicker in his eyes — frustration, maybe. Or calculation. He wasn't done. This was just a delay.
"Additionally," the chair said, "Miss Orlav will face no disciplinary action at this time. Her conduct, while irregular, appears to have been motivated by genuine concern for the welfare of the ferals. The Council recognizes that intent, even as we caution against future violations of protocol."
She stood.
"This session is adjourned."
I found Rae in the corridor afterward.
"Thirty days," I said.
"Yes."
"Is that enough time?"
Rae turned to face me. Her expression was tired, but there was something else underneath. Something that might have been hope.
"I don't know," she said honestly. "Stone is... complicated. The others may progress faster, but he's the one the Council will be watching. If he doesn't show significant improvement—"
"He will."
"You can't promise that."
"No." I met her eyes. "But I can promise I won't stop trying."
Rae studied me for a long moment. Then, slowly, she nodded.
"You should go. Rest. Eat something. The real work starts now."
She walked away before I could respond.
