Valtor and Orea remained in the same spot, locked in an embrace. Once her sobs quietened, Valtor gently pulled back.
"Hey… look at me," he said softly.
She lifted her head. Her eyes were swollen, lashes damp with tears.
"Whatever happened over there, it's going to be alright," Valtor reassured. She gave a small nod.
"Now I need you to take a deep breath and talk to me."
Orea wiped her eyes, exhaling shakily. "I think I've found her," she whispered.
"Found who?" Valtor asked.
"My mum." Her voice broke, and Valtor's eyes widened. He glanced toward the stall in the distance.
"The woman sharing snacks?" he asked.
Orea nodded. "When our eyes met, something clicked. I could swear I know her somehow." Her breath hitched.
"She called my name… then my chest tightened. I couldn't breathe and all I could feel was ache while my mind raced." Her eyes darted unfocused across the empty space as Valtor listened quietly.
"That's when she told me…" Orea swallowed hard. "She told me that she was my mother—and somehow my heart agrees with it."
Fresh tears spilled down her cheeks. She squeezed her eyes shut as though the truth physically hurt.
"I've always longed for this day," she whispered. "And when it finally came, I ran. I ran away, Valtor. I left her standing there, tearfully watching me."
Valtor moved closer, wiping her tears with his fingers before pulling her into his arms again.
"You acted naturally," he murmured. "It's normal to feel overwhelmed. It's exactly how I felt when I met my dad, so I understand."
And I know you're not ready to face her yet… but when you are, I'll be right here. I promise."
Orea nodded, eyes closed. "Okay."
Valtor sighed, his fingers moving gently through her hair. "I love you," he whispered, eyes shut.
Orea's eyes snapped open at the words. She didn't speak, but her body softened against him, answering him without a sound.
"Joining back with their friends, Valtor briefly explained what had happened. The group responded with quiet support — Zara pulled Orea into a big hug, and Rowynn and even Lynx stepped in close. Meanwhile, Kymani boasted about how his suggestions had played a major role in Orea finding her mum. Together, they walked back to the warehouse, the free snacks forgotten."
..................
Kyrena – Same Day
Professor Malcolm sat on a round-backed chair in the spacious living room, of one Convening Godfathers, taking in the décor while he waited. The walls were lined with portraits of the host shaking hands with regional leaders and public figures, each frame accented by delicate Kyrenan-inspired patterns.
"Professor," a voice called.
The host entered, followed closely by two other conveners—A male elder from Vatica, and female from Cyrus. Malcolm rose immediately, offering his hand.
"Elder Kanzaki," he greeted the host warmly, then bowed respectfully to the others. "Thank you for granting me this audience."
"Be seated, Professor," Kanzaki replied as they settled around the table. "It's no trouble. You notified us of your coming well in advance—and of your intentions."
"Yes, sir," Malcolm said, lowering himself into his seat. "And I've come with proof."
He placed a sealed folder on the center table.
"This contains a briefing from one of the Council's closed-door meetings, signed by the High Councilor—the Vatican regional leader. Within it are clear records of repeated violations of human rights laws… and now, plans to dehumanize innocent citizens in their attempt to resolve the alien outbreak."
He paused, letting the weight of his words settle.
"They've vowed to use any means necessary—including force and physical harm—on our young ones."
The female elder from Cyrus frowned. "Why bring this to us?"
Malcolm leaned forward. "Because your influence is what made the Council indisputable. And that same influence is the only thing strong enough to restrain them."
He took a breath. "I'm requesting a partnership. Your leverage, your networks. Together, we can destabilize the Council's control from within—force them to face the law instead of rising above it."
His voice softened, but the intensity didn't. "Our world can find another solution to this outbreak. One that doesn't involve sacrificing the lives of the next generation just to save ours".
The conveners exchanged long, weighted glances.
"Well said, Professor," Kanzaki finally replied. "We will discuss this with our counterparts—the other conveners across the regions. Once we reach a decision, you will be informed."
Malcolm stood and bowed once more. "Thank you—for your consideration."