Vatican Barracks — Morning
Superintendent Jeremy walked briskly through the halls toward his office. Clad in his military uniform, his boots stomped hard against the tiled floors, his face twisted into a deep frown while three officers followed silently behind him.
Once inside, he dropped into his chair, resting his elbows on the steel table and intertwining his fingers. His sharp gaze locked onto the soldiers standing before him.
"Well, Captain," he emphasized. "Before receiving your penalty, do you have any excuse as to why your team couldn't carry out a simple task?"
"We apologize, sir," the captain replied, expression sour. "Everything was going according to plan until Orion caught on to our intentions. Once he did, he double-crossed us and freed the offenders instead."
"And wasn't it your personal duty to neutralize his powers before he could even think of doing such a thing?" the superintendent pressed, leaning forward.
"Yes… sir." The captain grew tense. "And I did just that, but he beat me to the attack."
The superintendent shook his head in anger, disappointment etched across his features.
"Did the young man say anything while committing those acts?" he asked.
The officer lowered his head while his colleagues exchanged uneasy glances.
"Um… yes sir. He… threatened you," he admitted shakily.
A visible knot tightened in Sp. Jeremy's temples.
"Do we alert the Council about this development, sir?" the captain asked, trying to redeem himself—earning a sharp glare from the older soldier.
"I—I'm sorry, sir," he added quickly.
"Get out of my office!" Sp. Jeremy barked. "I'll deal with your incompetence later."
The officers stiffened, saluted, and hurried out.
---
Zaire — Same Time
Dressed in a crisp black suit, Professor Malcolm hurried through a series of rooms leading to the youths' designated living space. Walking elegantly beside him was the Zairan president, soldiers flanking them on both sides.
Inside, the crew sat patiently, chatting among themselves as they admired the colorful Zairan fabrics they wore. A sudden knock interrupted them."
Valtor quickly got up and opened the door, revealing a fully suited soldier.
"Morning," the soldier greeted. "Your visitors have arrived."
He stepped aside, and Professor Malcolm walked in.
Valtor's face lit up instantly. He rushed toward his father, who opened his arms and pulled him into a warm embrace. The rest of the crew watched quietly from behind.
"It's good to see you, son," Malcolm said as they separated. He turned to the others, moving closer and shaking each of their hands.
"It's so good to see all of you kids again," he added with a smile. "I'm glad to see you all looking well."
"Thank you, sir," they replied in unison, hearts warmed.
Their glances shifted toward the man who stepped into the room, carrying an unmistakable air of importance.
Professor Malcolm turned to the group.
"Kids, I'd like you all to meet the Zairan head of state — President Zha'rik."
The group offered a slight bow.
"Pleasure meeting you, sir, and thank you for having us," Valtor said on behalf of the team.
The president nodded. The crew's gazes lingered on him — his cultural outfit draped gracefully over his tall, broad frame, giving him a sharp, poised look. His dark skin glowed beneath the decorated fabric, and the way his curly hair swept to the side gave him a younger appearance despite his middle-aged features. He smiled warmly at them.
"You're all welcome to Zaire", he spoke calmly. Our nation is happy to have you, and we're glad you made it here safely."
He scanned through their faces.
"I know you may still carry fears after everything you've been forced through, but I assure you — the professor, myself, and my region stand with you. We'll work to bring this corrupt system to an end, until you're all free and back in your homes again."
When the president finished his speech and stepped out with the professor, Zara moved closer to Orea.
"You didn't tell me your president was that elegant."
"I didn't remember," Orea replied casually, before glancing toward Rowynn, who stood inches away admiring her floral-patterned attire.
"That dress looks really good on you, Rowynn," she said.
Rowynn's eyes lit up. "You think so?"
Orea nodded.
"It's true," Zara added. "And it suits you too — with all the green plants and everything."
While the group settled together, Valtor slipped out and found his dad near the entrance, eyes fixed on his phone. The firm expression on Malcolm's face made Valtor tap him lightly.
"Everything okay, Dad?"
"Yes, Valtor. Everything's fine," he replied. "The superintendent called, that's all."
"He called?" Valtor's tone rose. "Does he know we're here?"
"I'm not sure," Malcolm said. Then he placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
"But don't worry, son. The president and I will take care of it."