Hod's footsteps echoed with urgency against the corridor floor as the blindfolded woman walked beside her, keeping pace without difficulty despite being unable to see.
"Jean," Hod said without slowing down or turning her head. "Is anyone else besides us aware of the report's contents?"
"For the moment the information hasn't been made public," replied the blindfolded woman in a serious tone. "But given its nature, it won't take long to leak. This kind of thing doesn't stay secret for long."
Hod clenched her teeth.
"Why now of all times?" Hod said quietly, but with a frustration impossible to conceal. "Why did this have to happen right now?"
"I know you want to find your cousin," Jean said in a tone that, while still formal, carried a hint of understanding. "But this situation takes priority over everything. Including us."
"I know," Hod said. "I know that perfectly. But still… the timing is terribly inconvenient."
