In the early morning, Eric rose from his slumber, feeling refreshed and invigorated.

He and Ruth disguised themselves, now as members of the GHO.

Ruth voiced her concerns. "Eric, we're in a foreign land. Unlike back home, where a single call could summon plenty of help, we're on our own here. What if Kurt decides to sell us out?"

Her worries weren't unfounded. Kurt feared Genome Inc. and selling them out for self-preservation wasn't beyond reason.

Eric adjusted his tie confidently. "Sell us out? I trust Kurt isn't that foolish. If he dares betray us, I'll take care of him first, then we'll find our way back."

"Find our way back?" Ruth chuckled. "That's intriguing. We'd become fugitives in Catellon."

Eric glanced at his shoes, devoid of any dust, and remarked, "A puny little country like that wants to label me a fugitive? They're not capable."

Ruth fell silent, noticing Eric's newfound arrogance, reminiscent of their first encounter in Salt City!

-

At the hotel entrance, Kurt's