Xio was rather touched that Raphael had counted her among his reasons for not falling out with MI9's deputy director.
But then she felt troubled. What was she supposed to do next?
Raphael seemed to see her concern. "Just act as if you don't know anything!"
He paused, then added, "Until MI9 decides to move against the Aurora Order, neither of us is in danger.
"On the contrary, Dewinter thinks he can use this to keep me under his thumb, so we're actually relatively safe.
"As for what comes afterward, we'll deal with it then."
In truth, Raphael's earlier remark to Xio, "You're still in his hands," had simply slipped out as the conversation reached that point. To him, it felt little different from a polite turn of phrase.
Xio murmured her agreement and did not discuss the matter further.
After a little more small talk, Xio rose to leave. Raphael stood as well and said, "Happy New Year in advance to you and Fors."
The new year was only a few days away.
Xio thanked him and wished him a happy New Year in advance as well.
Then she took her people and escorted the three prisoners back to MI9.
Even when it was time to leave work, Xio still appeared perfectly normal.
Only after returning to their rented home and hanging up her coat did Xio sit on the stool by the entrance and stare into space.
"You're back?" Fors poked her head out of the kitchen and glanced at Xio. "What's wrong?"
"Today was awful, Fors." Xio took a deep breath. "I only realized today how stupid I am.
"
Fors froze. "You-you really only realized that today?"
Xio glared at her friend, then got up to help in the kitchen. As they prepared dinner, she recounted