Within the rigid hierarchy of the Healing Brotherhood, Spencer's undercover position was far less favorable than Griffins's.
He lacked the convenient freedom of movement afforded by "Captain Ans's" mid-ranking officer status. Instead, forged credentials and carefully orchestrated "chance displays of competence" had barely secured him a place among the transport ship's junior security officers.
His movements were restricted, and the information he could access was far lower-level. He could only feel his way forward, little by little, relying on limited intelligence and the instinct and patience peculiar to members of the Alpha Legion.
The mission to transport these "special weapons" was classified at an exceptionally high level, which naturally put Spencer on alert.
Using his position, he had gathered hints that this shipment might pose an enormous threat to Imperial forces. One of the key figures escorting it had also caught his attention: this so-called "Captain Ans," a recently promoted officer whose background appeared clean, yet always seemed a little too "perfect."
Within Spencer's limited authority and perspective, something about this "Ans's" behavior felt inexplicably wrong, carrying a faint sense of danger.
Following the Alpha Legion's principle of extreme caution, Spencer had privately decided that he must find an opportunity to approach and assess the man and, if necessary, eliminate him at any cost.
That was why he had approached "Ans" earlier under the pretext of delivering a "meeting notice."
He had intended to observe him and look for weaknesses. Never had he imagined that the encounter would take such a bizarre turn.
Both men lowered their weapons, and the wariness in their eyes gradually faded.
Griffins stared coldly at Spencer before saying slowly, "Spencer. I never expected to meet you again like this. Still less did I expect the 'junior officer' who became suspicious of me and tried to