Kellan took the unstable energy core from the subdued assassin. Back in Lyra's penthouse, he focused on his new objective: Optimization Synthesis.
[Target: Finch's Unstable Energy Core + Kellan's Old Laptop (Sub-Optimal Data Storage). Optimal Synthesis: Apex Energy Prototype (Stable, High-Yield, Clean Energy Source).]
Kellan channeled his newly recharged Optimization Energy. The components dissolved, then reformed into a clean, palm-sized crystalline cube that pulsed with perfect, silent energy. The Apex Energy Prototype.
The time for subtlety was over. Kellan met with Seraphina Vane. "I need a stage," Kellan told her. "The biggest stage. I want to challenge Finch publicly, formally, and legally."
"I can arrange a Global Patent Arbitrage Hearing, live-streamed, tomorrow," Seraphina promised.
"Perfect," Kellan said, placing the Apex Prototype on her desk. "Finch stole a concept. I will show the world the optimized reality."
That evening, the financial news was flooded with the story. Alistair Finch watched the news, his face tight with rage.
"The core... the core is active," Finch hissed. "He's not just a thief. He's the Apex. Vance, I need the ultimate solution. We can't lose this hearing. Everything depends on it."