They were reviewing the overnight traces from the captured source, pointing at specific lines of data and making short notes on their slates. She looked up as Elizabeth and Aiden entered. Her eyes were sharp, but the expression stayed measured.
"You're late," she said. "Not by much."
"We needed the rest," Aiden answered. His tone was even and professional. The residual lock between him and Elizabeth remained quiet and controlled. Neither of them allowed it to rise or shift in a way that would register on the nearby sensors.
Kaelara studied them for a moment longer than the situation required. Then she nodded toward the data spread across the table. "The residual spike from your end of the field operation lasted longer than the others. Elevated signature, clean harmonic, no instability. I need to know if that was tactical or personal."
