He wandered the halls of the Headquarters, rubbing his hands together and blowing on them for warmth. Silence was broken only by angry voices coming from further down the corridor.


<< He has to go! >> Griff’s voice echoed.


Tom moved cautiously toward the sound, positioning himself just around the corner. Through the gap of the half open door, he could see the council gathered in the Conference Room. Several Plersizians figures, including A-01 ,and, of course, the menacing Griff. A-01 stood at the center with her arms crossed, while some members of the council had formed a circle around her. Opposite her, Griff was pacing back and forth, his gaze occasionally darting to the pale councilors, as though looking for silent approval.


<< He can’t stay here any longer, Mika..>> Griff demanded angrily.


<< He can, because I say so! After all, it was Rankop’s wish – humans and Plersizians living together. In peace >> A-01 argued firmly.


<< He didn’t come here peacefully. He came armed! Who’s to say his people won’t come searching for him? You know they want the Weapon, Mika! We all do! Isn’t that right ? >> Griff roared, as he waited for a chorus of agreement from the council. Some members murmured in quiet assent, while others looked lost in thought.


Among them, Tom recognized Tronnak. With his muscular arms flded, Tronnak watched the heated exchange until his gaze settled on Tom. Tom remained still, trusting Tronnak would not betray him. For a moment the two shared an understanding and after a beat, Tronnak, shifted to a shadowed corner, breaking their eye contact.


<< Tom Waltts, will bring balance. He will return and keep peace between us! I will achieve what Rankop achieved. I am not telling you all this for no reason.. and I am not lying to you. I guarantee- >>


<< You are not listening! >> Griff shouted furiously, cutting her off. << He’s deceiving you! He’s human! A soldier! And you’re ignoring all this, choosing instead to shelter him at night rather than keep your people safe ! >>


Silence filled the room, as if the council itself was suddenly engulfed in doubt.


<< Tom Waltts is trustworthy, counselors. My personal, friendly relationship with him is the basis for everything I’m saying. >>


<< Your newfound feelings have blinded your judgment..>> Griff sneered softly.


<< No. I’m telling you the facts. He has seen the truth. The truth of the Plersizians . Our people! And he has agreed to be our messenger. There is no imbalance, and there is nothing to fear! The discussion is over, Griff! >> A-01 ordered, and she exited the room.


Her rapid steps halted when she saw Tom standing before her. He was waiting for her. She stopped, and he could see the weight she carried, how her role as a leader wore on her like armor she had to constantly hold up. Without a word, he stepped forward , enveloping her in embrace. For a brief moment, they both found solace in each other’s presence.


But he felt a gaze burning into them.


Tom lifted his eyes to see Griff, still in the doorway, his glare murderous. The hatred in Griff’s stare transformed him into something monstrous, a threat that hung over them like a storm cloud. A-01 might have believed she could reason with him, but Tom knew how to deal with men like Griff – decisively, with punches! Returning Griff’s hostile glare, he kept A-01 in his embrace as they walked away together, knowing the fight was far from over.