Freyr nodded, pretending to think it over and trying not to appear nervous. It seemed Marae had still not fully understood the powers this new codex afforded them. This had been Freyr’s hope and intention - the next part would’ve been significantly harder if she knew the truth. Her top-secret directive from the top of government was to eject the Object from the Cradle if things went badly. 

A proxy from the President’s staff had opened a secure direct line to her via Captain Andersen, after the incident inside the Rothian asset’s simulation. It’d become clear to them that the entire venture was compromised, and that they couldn’t reasonably stop it without losing the confidence of the government. Apparently, the anti-Cradle faction within Parliament held strong momentum, and saw this recoupling as an opportunity for a new beginning. 

The proxy asked for assurances that they’d be able to persuade the Cradle to stay in position, at least over the short term. Freyr said no such guarantee could be made. So they ordered her to make a contingency plan.

“Agreed. I’ve already got the three volunteers I need from my team. Just enough people to operate the essentials, who know it best.” Freyr turned to Vreta and 595. “You don’t have to come, but I could use a couple of sets of ‘layman’ hands, so to speak. I can’t guarantee your safety, but you already know that.”

595 smiled, standing up tall. “I thought you’d never ask.”