106. Something Shady

In Jory’s clinic, Belinda explains to Clive how she destabilised a complex lock through cumulative sequencing errors. Janice alerts them that Sophie is awake, and they watch via a far-seeing crystal as Sophie picks the five-element lock. Belinda embraces Sophie and ushers her back inside, disabling the crystal to speak privately.

Belinda and Sophie trade information about Jason Asano, Clive, and the Adventure Society’s intentions. Considering that Ventress is no longer safe and flight would leave them destitute, they debate trusting Jason. Belinda cites Jory’s character and Jason’s unasked financial help to Jory as reasons to risk cooperation. Sophie, wary but pragmatic, agrees that resisting may be futile and decides to proceed with Jason’s plan, with Belinda’s full support.

Jason meets Director Arella and Deputy Director Genevieve. He acknowledges meeting Arella’s father and demands no bureaucratic obstruction to claiming the thief’s indenture, arguing moral responsibility after putting Sophie within Lamprey’s reach. A sharp ethical exchange ends with Arella agreeing to enforce the city agreement that secures Jason’s claim, warning him not to cause further trouble.

At the Adventure Society’s holding tower, an adventurer tries to deposit two manacled men without a contract. Clerk Albert refuses, citing procedure. Supervisor Guy Spalding arrives to override him, but Albert stands firm and declines to bypass intake. Outside, the adventurer chastises Spalding for bungling their covert attempt to “reach the girl,” revealing Silva’s involvement and Spalding’s gambling debts. Their failed ploy underscores ongoing corruption and rising pressure around Sophie.