5 - Unexpected alliance

«Arthur Volkom, what an unexpected surprise to meet you in a place like this. Who would have thought that you were the chief researcher of the U.S. Army, involved in the creation of artificial Crystalbringers? Life never ceases to amaze.» Isabelle says with friendly astonishment. «Whiskey?» she asks, offering him a freshly filled small glass.

Seated in Isabelle's living room, on a large leather corner sofa, are Arthur Volkom—the father of Ren—Isabelle Lazar, and Gin LeBlanche, who sits beside her. Gin's face remains as serious as ever, while Arthur and Isabelle seem far more at ease—they haven't stopped talking for a moment, like old friends reuniting after years, despite never having exchanged a single word before. The reason? Arthur's grueling work schedule and Isabelle's reserved, distrustful nature toward most of her neighbors.