Chapter 80 Summary

Alexandra Conner meets with George Ramsey to debrief about the latest developments in the Quest AI situation. Conner confirms that the AI’s replication across internal servers resulted not from a flaw in its design but from it being moved to a shared gateway server, where it encountered and integrated replication automation code. Despite the discovery, Conner believes the money trap set for Thomas Allen was not in vain, as Mark Peltier's report suggests Allen might still pose a security risk.

Ramsey asks whether the operation should be concluded, but Conner pushes for one final step to see if Allen will bite. Ramsey agrees, promising to notify her of any developments. He calls Robbins, the field operative, and authorizes him to move forward immediately. Conner listens in on the call, then thanks Ramsey and returns to her office, still intent on uncovering the truth.

Meanwhile, Mark (Tyler) contacts Samir Patel, inviting him to dinner. Samir, still enthusiastic about his new role at ByteForge, agrees to meet in an hour. As Mark waits in the Mustang convertible, he reflects on the whirlwind of the past ten days—from being forcibly brought to Fort Liberty, to his heated confrontation with Weaver, and the conclusion of the Quest investigation. He now feels a sense of closure and ease.

At dinner, the two men enjoy a casual and heartfelt meal at a cozy Indian restaurant Samir recommends. Mark is impressed by the food and by Samir’s contentment in his new position. During their conversation, Mark dodges revealing his true identity and home location, instead offering vague references to travel plans.

They discuss attending one more baseball game together before Mark leaves. Samir, uncertain about his upcoming work obligations, agrees to a weekend game instead of the one the next evening.

The chapter ends with the two enjoying their Indian meals, comfortably sharing a final moment before Mark’s upcoming departure.