Asterion acknowledges Mara Quill’s amended record: the Continuity Directorate’s claim is private, disputed, and blocked. A certified copy transfers into Rayna’s sealed command archive.
Mara Quill
The certified record is yours, Rayna LaNorne. I am withdrawing from the immediate exchange. Any further challenge must proceed through formal relay review.
Mara’s channel closes. The pilot remains outside near the sensor spine in the reconnaissance mech, while the AI sister keeps the disputed claim partitioned from ship control.
In a soundproof command annex, a secured relay opens. Dr. Soren Vale, a middle-aged man with a gaunt build, pale skin, swept-back gray hair, and a severe dark collar, appears before a sealed custody display.
Dr. Soren Vale
You now have the certified dispute record. I cannot reopen the Directorate’s claim, and I have no access to your ship systems.
Behind Vale, the unopened black box rests within a transparent containment cradle. Its custody seal glows intact, surrounded by Helix continuity markings and layered relay verification.
Dr. Soren Vale
Ask what you need about the prototype’s value or Helix’s continuity program. I can explain the design stakes, the succession terms, and why they want it.
✓ Quest Accepted
Establish a credible basis for cooperation with Dr. Soren Vale
+ New Item Acquired
Certified dispute record