Chapter 73 Summary

Thomas Allen, curious but cautious, decides to meet Esmond Robbins at the rooftop bar as requested. Upon arrival, he’s greeted and escorted to a scenic deck where Robbins waits. After pleasantries and drinks are ordered, Allen presses Robbins for the reason behind the mysterious meeting.

Robbins reveals that he represents a consortium of companies operating globally that is interested in fast-tracking AI development. Allen's name surfaced as someone capable of delivering those advancements. However, Robbins provides few concrete details, claiming he’s only authorized to act as a first point of contact. Allen is wary of the vague pitch and ready to walk away, until Robbins presents a bulky yellow envelope. Robbins insists it’s not a bribe, but compensation for Allen’s time. Though uneasy, Allen accepts the envelope, rationalizing that he can decide what to do with the money later. Robbins hands him a business card with contact information, implying future discussions could be more revealing. Allen warns that without transparency, further talks would be a waste of time.

Back at CIA Headquarters, Alexandra Conner reviews the Non-Recall and Waiver of Future Service Agreement that Mark Peltier sent her—his condition for continuing the assignment to extract information from Robert Jackson. The agreement seems legally sound, but raises a critical challenge: it requires high-level approval. Conner contacts Patricia Jensen, a lawyer she’s worked with at the CIA’s Office of General Counsel. Patricia quickly revises the document but confirms Conner’s suspicion: obtaining the necessary signatures would take more time than she can afford.

Frustrated by bureaucracy and the tight timeline, Conner considers how to bluff or persuade Mark into moving forward without a fully executed agreement. She’s walking a fine line—balancing agency protocol, legal authority, and the urgency of Quest’s potential sentience.