The afternoon sunshine in Forest City was just right. Golden light spilled over the starport's metal runways, reflecting a dazzling glare.
Zone C of the starport had been completely cleared. Security cordons surrounded it, and the Crimson Lightning Company's security personnel stood fully armed with loaded guns, their vigilant eyes sweeping every corner.
Cole stood before the observation deck of the control tower, the coffee in his hand long since cold. His gaze remained fixed on the far end of the void, where the Falling Star's signal was rapidly approaching.
"Two hours until the Falling Star reaches its designated orbit," a crew member reported over the communicator.
Cole nodded, his fingertips tapping lightly against the railing, but his mind was anything but calm.
Chris had suddenly passed along news of an "Extradimensional Creature," something completely beyond his expectations.
He did not believe what Chris had said, but the grave look on his face, along with the response from both the Guard Army and the Bureau of Affairs, made it difficult to tell whether it was true.
If it was false, that would be easy enough to handle. But if it was true, and an Extradimensional Creature suspected of possessing inferno rules was hiding aboard the Falling Star, then Miss Anna's safety...
He did not let that thought continue. Regardless, judging from his earlier communication with Feya, everything aboard the Falling Star was normal. There was no danger.
As long as Miss Anna was safe, that was enough.
As for the Extradimensional Creature, he would simply cooperate with the Fighting Association and the Guard Army's search.
"Pass the word down. Tighten security. Once the Falling Star lands, connect the internal passage immediately. No one is to approach without authorization."
Cole gave the order in a low voice, a sharp glint flashing