Encrypted.
Direct.
I do not open it immediately.
“From them?” Rethan asks, his tone neutral but weighted.
“Yes.”
Kael steps into the room then, movements deliberate despite the stiffness that lingers in his stride. The fresh bandage at his side is hidden beneath dark fabric, but I know the shape of it, the line of strain beneath each breath.
“You should be horizontal,” I say without looking at him.
“You should be ignoring that,” he replies.
“I am.”
I open the League transmission.
The message blooms across my interface in crisp diplomatic phrasing that smells faintly of old marble and self-preservation.
Analyst Vance,
In light of recent developments and verified misconduct within Alliance command, the League recognizes the complexity of your position. We are prepared to offer covert protection and reinstatement of diplomatic clearance should you publicly clarify your involvement with Reaper command and distance yourself from insurgent leadership.
This offer remains time-sensitive.
We urge you to consider the broader stability of the region.
I read it twice.
Not because it surprises me.
Because it is almost elegantly phrased.
“They want you back,” Kael says quietly.
“They want insulation,” I reply. “Not me.”
Rethan watches both of us carefully.
“What is the cost?” he asks.
“Denunciation,” I say, flicking the message open so they can see the relevant clause. “Public clarification that Kael acted independently of any League oversight. Implication of coercion preferred.”
Kael’s expression remains unreadable.
“Do you want to consider it?” he asks.
The question is not edged.
It is sincere.
I let the console dim slightly and turn to face him fully.
“If I denounce you,” I say, my voice steady, “the League can claim moral distance. They can posture as principled while retaining influence over Alliance reconstruction. They will paint me as a whistleblower who nearly strayed too far.”
“And you regain immunity,” Rethan adds.
